Colorado Football’s 2024 season can be summed up with one extraordinary name: Travis Hunter. Hunter wasn’t just a standout player; he was a dynamic force on both sides of the field, a true Swiss Army knife for the Buffaloes. His staggering stats—14 touchdowns, over 1,100 receiving yards, a Heisman Trophy, and the Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year title—made him an unparalleled figure in college football. Performing at such a high level while excelling as a two-way player is nearly unheard of.
Now, as Hunter and quarterback Shedeur Sanders prepare for likely top-three selections in the NFL Draft, Colorado faces a significant challenge: replacing these generational talents. The pressing question is whether Coach Deion Sanders’ team has the next stars capable of stepping into the spotlight and filling those legendary shoes. Surprisingly, the answer doesn’t lie in a single player but a collective effort from a promising roster.
Julian Lewis: The Rising Quarterback Star
One of the most promising names is Julian Lewis, a quarterback from the Carrollton Trojans who has been phenomenal this season. Lewis has thrown 44 touchdowns and accumulated over 3,200 passing yards, showcasing not only precision but also exceptional football intelligence. His ability to read defenses and his natural leadership make him an immediate difference-maker. With Lewis preparing for the Georgia State Championship against the Grayson Rams, he’s already demonstrating the qualities of a future star. If he joins Colorado, his impact could be transformative.
London Merritt: Defensive Edge Mastermind
Next up is London Merritt, a standout defensive end from IMG Academy. Although his team had a quieter season, Merritt’s performances were anything but subdued. Ranked as ESPN’s No. 5 defensive end prospect and No. 52 overall in the ESPN 300, Merritt initially committed to Ohio State but flipped to Colorado in a significant recruiting victory for Coach Sanders. His relentless pass-rushing abilities and imposing size make him a game-changer on the defensive front. With Merritt in the lineup, Colorado’s defense is poised for a major upgrade.
Carde Smith: Offensive Line Powerhouse
Adding to the Buffaloes’ arsenal is Carde Smith, a 6’5”, 290-pound offensive tackle who also flipped his commitment, leaving USC to join Colorado. Ranked as ESPN’s No. 32 offensive tackle prospect, Smith provides much-needed reinforcement for Colorado’s offensive line. His ability to protect the quarterback and create running lanes makes him a vital addition to the roster.
Isaiah Hardge: The Next Two-Way Star
Then there’s Isaiah Hardge, a player drawing comparisons to Travis Hunter for his versatility. Hardge began as a three-star wide receiver at St. Thomas Aquinas but transitioned to defensive back at Colorado. At 5’10” and 160 pounds, he’s still developing, but his work ethic and potential have already caught Coach Sanders’ eye. Hardge represents the grit and determination that define Colorado’s new era and could emerge as a key player after further refinement.
Rebuilding or Reloading?
Replacing legends like Hunter and Sanders is no small feat, but Colorado’s recruiting class for 2025 is shaping up to be one of the strongest in the nation. Alongside Lewis, Merritt, Smith, and Hardge, the Buffaloes are adding talents like Adrian Wilson and Quentin Gibson. This roster is built not to rebuild but to reload, ensuring the program remains competitive at the highest level.
Coach Sanders’ declaration, “We coming,” remains a testament to his vision for Colorado Football. The 2024 season marked the end of an extraordinary chapter, but with a new wave of talent ready to shine, the Buffaloes are preparing to write an equally compelling sequel. While filling Travis Hunter’s cleats might seem impossible, Colorado’s future stars are poised to leave their own indelible marks on the program’s legacy.