The Colorado Buffaloes have had a revolving door at the tight end position since Coach Prime took over, and while there have been flashes of potential, no one has stepped up as a true game-changer.
But that might be about to change. Enter Zach Atkins. Could he finally be the answer Colorado has been searching for?
Yea I’m sold on Zach Atkins we never had a TE wit this energy my boy gone show out 💪🏾🦬 pic.twitter.com/B6nu42n6qG
— Chris Johnson (@everybdyhatesch) February 21, 2025
Let’s be real—tight end has not been a strength for the Buffs since Brady Russell. Sure, we’ve seen guys like Mikey Harrison provide some production, and the Washington transferSav'ell Smalls who made the transition from defense to offense. But none of them have been true difference-makers. The Buffs have lacked that one guy who can both block effectively and be a legitimate weapon in the passing game.
Now, all eyes are on Atkins. At 6’4” and 240 pounds, he’s got the prototypical size for the position, and early buzz suggests he could be the missing piece to Colorado’s offense.
First things first, Colorado needs a tight end who doesn’t tip the offense’s hand. Last year, defenses didn’t even have to think about the tight end when preparing for Colorado.
Atkins has the chance to change that. He’s not just a receiving threat—he’s got the frame to contribute as a blocker, too. That alone makes him an upgrade over what we’ve seen. With the Buffs needing to emphasize the run game in 2025, having a tight end who can be a factor in both aspects of the offense is crucial.
With Pat Shurmur still at offensive coordinator and Kaiden Salter leading the charge at quarterback (early prediction) this offense is going to look different. The focus on establishing a run game is clear, and that means tight ends are going to have to play a bigger role.
Expect to see more two-tight end sets of Atkins and Smalls, something Colorado has barely used in recent years.
We’ve also got to talk about Brett Bartolone, who transitioned from coaching wide receivers to tight ends last year. This move raised some eyebrows, but it’s probably a smart choice.
Beyond Atkins, Colorado has some intriguing young talent at the position. Zayne DeSouza, the Loveland (CO) High School product is a name to watch. His build is already college-ready, and if he develops quickly, he could find himself on the field sooner rather than later. Corbin Laisure is another name in the mix, though he likely needs a bit more time to bulk up before making a major impact.
The Buffs need a tight end to step up, and if Atkins can be that guy, it changes the entire complexion of the offense. No more one-dimensional formations. No more predictable play-calling. A legitimate tight-end threat means Colorado can finally be a more balanced attack.