The Colorado Buffaloes’ NFL Talent Pipeline Shines Brightly As Former Stars Make Preseason Impact Across Multiple Teams And Positions
The Colorado Buffaloes may still be building their identity under head coach Deion Sanders at the college level, but the program’s NFL presence is already turning heads. This preseason, the Colorado-to-NFL pipeline was on full display, as former Buffaloes across the league made plays, earned roster buzz, and reminded fans that Boulder remains a breeding ground for professional talent.
From recent draft picks to undrafted free agents carving out roles, Colorado alumni showed up in highlight reels and training camp reports alike. For a program that has experienced its share of ups and downs in the college football landscape, this preseason served as a timely reminder that NFL success is part of the school’s legacy — and that it’s still being written.
One of the most notable performances came from former Buffaloes wide receiver Laviska Shenault Jr., who continues to establish himself as a versatile offensive weapon in the NFL. Whether lined up in the slot, out wide, or in motion, Shenault flashed the dynamic playmaking ability that made him a star in Boulder. His ability to turn short passes into explosive gains reminded scouts and fans alike why he was once considered one of the most dangerous players in college football.
Defensively, linebacker Nate Landman has been quietly climbing the depth chart for the Atlanta Falcons. Known for his instinctive play and tackling ability during his Colorado days, Landman carried that same tenacity into preseason action. His sideline-to-sideline speed, combined with a knack for diagnosing plays quickly, has drawn praise from coaches and positioned him as a key special teams contributor — and possibly more as the regular season approaches.
In the trenches, offensive lineman Arlington Hambright, now with the Indianapolis Colts, made his presence felt with consistent pass protection and improved run-blocking technique. The preseason is often a proving ground for linemen battling for roster spots, and Hambright’s steady performance strengthened his case to remain in the league. His progress is also a testament to the development Colorado players can achieve at the pro level.
Perhaps the most intriguing storyline came from the rookie class, where former Buffaloes are beginning their NFL journeys. This includes standout cornerback Christian Gonzalez — who, while only spending part of his college career at Colorado before transferring, still carries a piece of the Buffaloes’ legacy into his professional career. Gonzalez’s smooth coverage skills and physicality have impressed coaches early on, hinting at a bright future ahead.
Special teams also saw Colorado alumni make an impact. Long snapper J.T. Bale, a specialist who rarely gets the spotlight, delivered consistent snaps and clean execution throughout preseason games. While his contributions might fly under the radar, they are crucial to team success — a reminder that NFL careers can be built on mastering niche roles.
What makes this preseason’s Colorado connection particularly compelling is the diversity of positions represented. From skill players to linemen, from veterans to rookies, the Buffaloes’ NFL presence spans the entire roster spectrum. This not only reflects well on the program’s recruiting and development but also sends a message to current and future players: Boulder can still be a launchpad to the pros.
The visibility of these players also plays into the momentum Deion Sanders is working to build at the collegiate level. While Coach Prime’s focus is squarely on winning games in the Pac-12 and beyond, having recent Buffaloes succeed in the NFL bolsters the program’s credibility. Recruits notice when a school consistently produces professional talent, and the more Colorado alumni shine under the NFL spotlight, the easier it becomes to pitch that narrative.
Fans, too, are feeling the pride. Social media was buzzing during preseason games as highlights of former Buffaloes circulated. Plays that once electrified Folsom Field were now unfolding on NFL stages, with announcers making note of the Colorado ties. It’s a powerful connection that keeps alumni engaged and strengthens the program’s identity across sports communities.
For the players themselves, this preseason was about more than just nostalgia or representing their alma mater — it was about survival and growth in the hyper-competitive world of the NFL. Making a roster is no easy feat, and every tackle, catch, block, or special teams snap matters. That so many Buffaloes alumni found ways to stand out speaks volumes about their resilience and preparation.
As the regular season approaches, not all of these players will make final 53-man rosters, but the impact of their preseason performances is undeniable. For some, it’s the start of a long career; for others, it’s another chapter in an already established NFL journey. Either way, the Colorado-to-NFL connection remains alive and thriving.
If this preseason was any indication, the Buffaloes’ influence on the league is far from fading. In fact, with Sanders at the helm in Boulder and NFL alumni continuing to deliver, the pipeline may be primed for an even greater surge in the coming years. The Colorado brand is back in the conversation — not just on Saturdays in the fall, but on Sundays too.
