Deion Sanders open to bringing former Colorado players back for 2026

Deion Sanders said the Colorado football program is continuing to look into whether former players from the 2022 recruiting class can return after a recent eligibility ruling opened the door for another season.

The Buffs coach said the staff has discussed the affected players and would be willing to bring back anyone who fits what Colorado needs in 2026.

"If they can help us, we certainly want them," Sanders said. "We've talked about all those guys. It would be kind to have those young men included in what we're trying to accomplish this year."

One name Sanders highlighted was kicker Buck Buchanan. Colorado could use his leg strength on kickoffs after Josh McCormick left the program, and Buchanan consistently produced touchbacks during his time in Boulder. He also provided a long-range field goal option, even though he was not the regular placekicker.

Coach Prime says CU would consider bringing back Class of 2022 players after the ruling:

“If they can help us, we certainly want them.” pic.twitter.com/myFR3u8WnK

— DNVR Buffs (@DNVR_Buffs) August 14, 2026

Alejandro Mata and edge rusher Keaten Wade are other former Buffs who could be affected by the decision. Mata was Sanders' kicker dating back to Jackson State and finished his college career with an 81.8% field-goal rate. However, his brief stint in the Indoor Football League could complicate his amateur status. Wade had 47 tackles and 2.5 sacks last season. His experience would be useful for a Colorado pass rush that remains short on proven depth.

The court ruling applies to certain players from the 2022 recruiting class who could gain another year under the NCAA's evolving eligibility framework, provided they meet amateurism requirements. It does not apply to former junior college recruits from that class.

Colorado is now weighing whether any of those former players can help immediately. Buchanan appears to be the cleanest fit, particularly with the Sept. 3 opener at Georgia Tech approaching.

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This article originally appeared on Buffaloes Wire: Deion Sanders open to bringing former Colorado players back for 2026