Two positions groups that will define Colorado football's 2026 season

With a completely different roster entering 2026 and coming off a 3-9 season, the Colorado Buffaloes need many position groups to improve.

Looking ahead to ESPN’s future power rankings, Adam Rittenberg highlights the importance of Colorado’s offense, specifically Julian Lewis and the trio of wide receivers brought in via the transfer portal.

Danny Scudero, Kam Perry and DeAndre Moore are transformational skill players who are a significant step up from what the Buffs had last year and closer to what Travis Hunter, LaJohntay Wester and Jimmy Horn.

“Colorado hopes to narrow things down, ideally with Julian Lewis, the nation’s No. 12 overall recruit in 2025, having every opportunity to lead the offense under new coordinator Brennan Marion,” Rittenberg wrote. “Colorado added experience and some sizzle with its large incoming transfer group, which includes several players who can thrive in Marion’s offense.”

Bottom Line

The improved skill players make Colorado’s offense a real threat in the Big 12. When CU won nine games in 2024, it was on the back of a borderline elite offense and a defense that made timely big plays. That blueprint is one Deion Sanders and company are looking to return to.

Better performance at the quarterback and wide receiver positions should change the trajectory of Colorado’s 2026 season.

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This article originally appeared on Buffaloes Wire: Colorado football position groups that could define the 2026 season