While the football world focused on the 2025 NFL Draft — particularly Colorado’s Shedeur Sanders sliding to the Cleveland Browns — there was another major development in Boulder. Four Colorado players entered the transfer portal, including projected starting cornerback. He was joined by his brother, running back, their cousin, walk-on linebacker Trenton Hood, and linebacker Jaylen Wester. All four submitted their names on the final day of the spring portal window.
A former Auburn transfer, was expected to fill part of the void left by Travis Hunter, the Heisman Trophy winner who was drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars. Last season, Hood played in all 13 games, recording 24 tackles, two interceptions, and six pass breakups. Brandon Hood, a 5-foot-10, 200-pound redshirt freshman, had an impressive spring and was set to be part of Marshall Faulk’s running back rotation following the spring game.
Colton explained the decision on X (formerly Twitter) on Saturday, saying:
“My brother and I dreamed of playing college football together since we were nine years old. I came to Boulder to help the team and play with my brother! In college athletics, as coaching changes take place, coaches are free to bring in their own personnel.”
Jaylen Wester — the younger brother of former Colorado standout receiver LaJohntay Wester — also entered the transfer portal after just one season in Boulder. Wester, a senior, had been in the mix for a starting spot at inside linebacker. He originally began his college career at Florida Atlantic University (FAU) before transferring to Colorado, where he tallied 15 tackles, one pass breakup, and a forced fumble during the 2024 season.
With Wester’s departure, Colorado has now seen 14 players enter the transfer portal during this cycle.