When it comes to talent, Colorado’s defensive backs group is absolutely stacked heading into the 2025 season. They might not be the deepest unit on the team, but in terms of raw ability, this could be one of the most dangerous secondaries in the country.
The Returners
The Buffs are bringing back a trio of corners that can go toe-to-toe with anyone in the Big 12. DJ McKinney was an absolute force last year, locking down his side of the field and proving why he’s on an NFL trajectory. After transferring from Oklahoma State in 2023, he stepped up in a huge way opposite Travis Hunter in 2024, leading the team in pass deflections and proving himself as one of the toughest corners in the conference. Now, with another offseason under Coach Prime’s guidance, McKinney is poised for an even bigger 2025.
Colton Hood is another name that the rest of the Big 12 better get familiar with. If you weren’t paying attention last season, Hood had his breakout moment when he stepped in for an injured Travis Hunter and locked down future first-rounder Tetairoa McMillan in the Arizona game. His ability to stick to receivers like glue and make plays on the ball makes him a legitimate star in the making. Expect Hood to take on an even bigger role in 2025.
Then there’s Preston Hodge, who returns for a final run after using his extra year of eligibility. Hodge was a crucial piece in the nickel corner spot last season before suffering an injury late in the year. With his experience and technical skill, he’s going to be a stabilizing force for Colorado’s defense, especially against teams that love to attack the middle of the field. Having him back is massive for the Buffs.
Newcomers
Beyond the big three, Isaiah Hardge remains an intriguing wild card. The two-way playmaker saw flashes of action at both receiver and corner last season, but if he fully commits to the defensive side, he could be a serious problem for opposing offenses. His natural athleticism and ball skills make him someone to keep an eye on this spring.
Other returning players like Ivan Yates, who transferred from Furman in 2023, will be competing for rotational snaps, while new transfers and incoming freshmen are expected to push for playing time. Defensive back is another position where the Buffaloes will need to retool after losing both Travis Hunter and safety Shilo Sanders.
Oklahoma transfer Makari Vickers and USF safety transfer Tawfiq Byard were key additions from the portal. Antonio Branch Jr., a three-star, was a major addition through the high school recruiting ranks.
Looking ahead to 2025
With Travis Hunter off to the NFL, the spotlight shifts to this next wave of talent. The McKinney-Hood-Hodge trio has the potential to be one of the best defensive backfields in college football, and if players like Hardge step up, this unit could be elite.
The 2024 season saw major strides in Colorado’s defensive back play, and with another year under Robert Livingston’s defensive system, expectations are sky-high for 2025. If this group lives up to its potential, the Buffs' secondary could be a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks all season long.