The Colorado Buffaloes are at a crossroads with their linebacker unit.
The departures of LaVonta Bentley and Nikhai Hill-Green have left significant gaps in the defense. Enter Martavius French, a transfer from UTSA, whose arrival in Boulder brings both hope and intrigue.
French's journey has been anything but linear. Starting at Tennessee, moving through Hutchinson Community College, and then making a mark at UTSA, he's demonstrated resilience and adaptability. At UTSA, French led the team with 80 tackles in 2024, including 17 tackles for loss, showcasing his ability to disrupt offenses effectively.
Now, as he dons the black and gold, the question looms: Can French translate his past performances to the Power Four level and fill the void in Colorado's defense? His track record suggests he has the tools. Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 225 pounds, French combines size with agility, making him a formidable presence on the field.
However, the transition won't be without its challenges. The Big 12 presents a different caliber of competition, and French will need to quickly adapt to new schemes and heightened expectations.
Leadership will be crucial. With a relatively young linebacker room, his experience could serve as a guiding light for his teammates.
In the grand scheme, French's performance could be a linchpin for the Buffaloes defensive success this season. If he steps up, Colorado might just have found the anchor they desperately need. Only time will tell, but the potential is undeniable.