Colorado's New WR Commit Shares Reason for Turning Down Alabama, Georgia Others

It wasn't just the Sanders effect or his heavy NFL representation on the staff that won over the talented wideout.

Ward tells Tom Loy of 247Sports that multiple factors played into his decision.

"Colorado feels like the best place for me, because of the culture, the energy around the program, and the way the staff believes in me," Ward told Loy. "It feels like the right fit for my growth, both on and off the field."

Ward connected with Sanders during his recruitment to Colorado. But Sanders wasn't alone in courting Ward. The incoming WR cites two CU coaches who ran point on his recruitment.

"The coaches at Colorado who positively impacted my decision were Coach [Jason] Phillips and Coach Shadd [Rashad Davis]. They made me feel valued," Ward said of the Buffaloes' WR coach and quality control analyst, respectively. "Their belief in me is building a relationship that's deeper than just football."

What Colorado Gains in New WR Commit

Colorado features two seniors and one graduate transfer. Saturday's breakout performer Sincere Brown is the latter, who's playing his final year of eligibility.

Ward first exploded on the national radar playing for Walton High in Georgia -- catching 59 passes for 1,160 yards and averaged 19.7 yards per catch with 15 touchdowns. He transferred to IMG Academy for his senior campaign.

Colorado gains a tactician with his releases, as Ward brings impressive foot work to gain separation. He's a long strider as well after the catch. Walton trusted him as a deep threat and figures to become the same in Boulder.

The Buffaloes sit at 13 total verbal commits for the '26 class. Except Ward becomes the first WR pledge.