CU Buffs Shake It Up: Taje McCoy Exits, New Faces and Positions Mix Things Up!

Alright, grab your helmets and buckle up, because CU football’s got some shake-ups in the lineup that are worth chatting about. First up, defensive end Taje McCoy is hitting the transfer portal. Yep, one of Colorado’s hottest up-and-coming pass rushers is ready for a change of scenery. And why not? The transfer portal is like the wild west these days—a chance for players to find a spot where they can shine even more.

Taje’s already made a name for himself with his performance last season—23 tackles, four sacks, and a couple of quarterback hurries in just 13 games! Not too shabby for coming off the bench. And with CU leading the Big 12 in sacks last year, these are big shoes to fill. The team’s sack leader, BJ Green, has graduated, but there are still some beasts returning like Arden Walker and Keaten Wade who’ll be on sack duty.

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Meanwhile, Kam Mikell’s been spotted running with the backs instead of catching passes—but don’t sweat it, the coaches confirmed he’s staying at wide receiver. It’s all part of adjusting to those occasional spring practice hiccups, like when someone’s missing ‘cause they’ve got to hit a class. Remember last year they had Isaiah Hardge do the same thing? Yeah, it’s kind of like a spring ball tradition at this point.

Oh, and how about Zach Atkins? Dude’s back in action at tight end after shaking off an illness during spring practices. Pat Shurmur’s singing his praises—saying Atkins has got skills both in catching those passes and blocking, which is what you want in a top tight end. Could be CU’s go-to guy this season if all keeps going well.

And speaking of big go-to guys, Jehiem Oatis from Alabama is looking good at defensive line. Yeah, Oatis was a bit under the radar last year due to the whole redshirt-and-transfer thing, but at 6’5”, 325 pounds—this junior’s ready to make a solid impact. Sounds like he’s acclimating well, and CU’s defense is hopeful to have his presence felt when the season kicks off.

It’s clear the Buffs are in a period of transition, with players moving around and stepping up. Those practices and strategic movements—on and off the field—are going to shape what’s next for CU. Whether it’s potential new additions from the portal or refining their current roster, it’s all about getting ready to make some noise this coming season. Go Buffs! 🌟