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Deion Sanders Delivers Blunt Message to Kaidon Salter After QB Nod
© Raymond Carlin III-Imagn Images

Colorado Buffaloes head coach Deion Sanders is never shy about making his point clear, and that was the case once again on his podcast "Coach Prime's Playbook with Romi Bean." Just days after announcing Kaidon Salter as the Buffaloes' starting quarterback for the 2025 season, Sanders doubled down on his competitive philosophy.

While the move officially sets Salter ahead of five-star freshman Julian "JuJu" Lewis on the depth chart, the Colorado coach made it known that no one's job is safe.

Sanders spoke very highly of his roster saying, "I'm proud of the team we have assembled." But he quickly pivoted to the core of his message, making it clear that the Buffaloes are embracing a relentless mindset.

"Everything, every position is a competition. Ain't nobody got a kickstand down and just relaxing. Everyone got to work for it." That statement shows how Sanders is approaching a big season in Boulder as Colorado prepares for the season opener at Folsom Field.

Kaidon Salter Earns Starting Spot

Salter, who transferred from Liberty after leading the Flames, brings valuable experience to the Buffaloes. His dual-threat ability fits the explosive offense Colorado is expected to run, and Sanders praised his composure under pressure. “Kaidon has a ton of experience. He’s been up under the lights before. He’s a dual-threat guy that can do some incredible things, especially when he’s on,” Sanders said.

Even with Salter’s edge, Sanders made it clear that Lewis will not be watching from the sidelines for long. “JuJu’s going to get opportunities. We plan on implementing him in the game plan as well.” That plan shows how the Buffaloes see both quarterbacks as critical to the team's growth in 2025. The presence of Lewis, one of the most hyped recruits in recent memory, ensures the quarterback room will remain a central storyline all season.

Why the Colorado Quarterback Battle Matters

Colorado’s quarterback situation is about more than just who takes the first snap. The Buffaloes are entering their second year in the Big 12 under Sanders, and expectations are at an all-time high. The program added speed and size across the roster in the offseason, raising hopes that Colorado can push for a conference title run. For Sanders, maintaining competition at quarterback sends a message to the entire team.

Key Storylines Entering the Season

  • Kaidon Salter is named the starter, but Julian Lewis is expected to see game action.
  • Colorado enters its third year under Deion Sanders with heightened expectations.
  • Big 12 race adds pressure with stacked quarterback talent across the league.
  • Buffaloes are playing their first season under Sanders without Travis Hunter and Shedeur Sanders.

The excitement surrounding Colorado football this fall is not just about individual talent but about the culture Sanders is building. By keeping every position open to competition, he is making it clear that no one can get comfortable. For Salter, the starting nod is just the beginning. For Lewis, the opportunity to step in could come at any moment. Either way, Colorado’s quarterback storyline will remain one of the most closely watched developments in the 2025 season.

The Buffaloes open the season by hosting the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets at 8 p.m. Friday on ESPN.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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