Alright, Buffs fans—spring ball is officially here, and you know what that means: it’s time for the endless speculation about who’s going to be starting for the Buffs in 2025. Coach Prime has brought in some serious talent, but there are still a ton of question marks. So, let’s dive in and break down who I think should be starting on offense this fall.
Quarterback: Kaidon Salter (For Now)
Let’s be real—the quarterback battle is THE storyline to watch this offseason. It’s the biggest position in football, and in Boulder, it might just be the most talked-about topic in the entire state.
Right now, I’m giving the edge to Kaidon Salter, the dynamic dual-threat transfer who looks like he could finally give this offense the spark it desperately needs. He’s got experience, he’s got wheels, and he can extend plays with his legs—something we didn’t see enough of last year. With the O-line (hopefully) improving, Salter’s mobility could be a game-changer.
But let’s not forget about Julian Lewis, the five-star freshman phenom. This kid is special—like, ‘could-be-the-future-of-the-program’ special. But he’s also a true freshman, and that’s a big jump. Would I love to see him go full Caleb Williams and take over the job instantly? Of course. But I think Coach Prime rolls with the safer bet in Salter to start the year while Lewis gets his feet wet.
My prediction? Salter starts the season, but Lewis takes over at some point—maybe after the bye week.
Starter: Kaiden Salter
Running Back: Micah Welch
The Buffs need a workhorse, and right now, Micah Welch looks like the guy to take on that role. He’s a physical back with solid hands, which makes him a perfect fit for this offense. If CU wants to take the pressure off the quarterback—whoever it is—they NEED to establish the run, and Welch has the skill set to be the bell cow.
Of course, we’ll still see a rotation. Dallan Hayden could be the third-down guy with his pass-blocking ability, and Isaiah Augustave has the juice to break big plays. But if I had to bet on one back getting the majority of the touches, I’m rolling with Welch.
Starter: Micah Welch
Offensive Line: Time to step up
Let’s not sugarcoat it—last year’s O-line play was better but still rough. Shedeur Sanders was getting sacked like it was a hobby for opposing defenses. If this unit doesn’t improve, it doesn’t matter who’s under center.
Luckily, reinforcements have arrived. CU hit the transfer portal hard, and there’s reason to believe we’ll see a significant jump in production. If this line can even be average, the offense should take a massive step forward. If they’re actually good? We could be talking about a dangerous unit.
Starters: LT: Jordan Seaton, LG: Zy Crisler, C: Cash Cleveland, RG: Tyler Brown, RT: Carde Smith
Wide Receiver: Absolutely loaded
One thing we don’t have to worry about? The receiver room. This group is stacked. The Buffs have playmakers all over the field, and if Salter (or Lewis) gets time to throw, this passing game is going to be nasty.
I expect a big season from some of the returning stars, but keep an eye on a couple of under-the-radar guys who could break out like Joseph Williams. There’s too much talent here for this group not to shine.
Starters: Omarion Miller, Joseph Williams, Drelon Miller
Tight End: More Involvement This Year?
Tight end has been an afterthought in CU’s offense for a while now, but I’ve got a feeling that changes in 2025. Whether it’s for extra blocking or as a safety valve in the passing game, expect this position to get more love than it has in recent years.
Starter: Zach Atkins
This offense has so much potential—it just needs the right pieces to click. Salter’s experience gives him the inside track at QB, but Lewis is the long-term answer. The running game should improve with Welch leading the way, and the O-line has to be better... right?
One thing’s for sure, this spring is going to be must-watch for Buffs fans. We’re about to get a glimpse of what’s in store for 2025, and I don’t know about you, but I’m hyped.