In preparation for July, Colorado football is stepping up its college football recruiting efforts. A four-star linebacker is now on his way to Boulder, joining Deion Sanders and the Buffaloes. rejecting Florida State, Sanders’ alma mater, and Ole Miss in the process.
The newest player in the Buffs’ 2026 class is Rodney Colton Jr. The Newnan High standout and native of Grantville, Georgia, officially announced his decision on Saturday.
The Seminoles and Rebels are the last two teams vying for Colton Jr.’s spot at CU, according to Hayes Fawcett of On3/Rivals. However, according to the national recruiting outlet, “Coach Prime” adds the 16th-ranked LB in the country.
Within five days, Colton Jr. becomes the second CU pledge. On Monday, Xavier Payne, a former Florida State tackle recruit, flipped to Colorado. Hip-hop icon Luther “Uncle Luke” Campbell, who mentors Payne, a recent Colorado recruit at Edison High in Miami, responded with congratulations on that move.
Impact of new 4-star for Colorado, Deion Sanders
Prior to Payne and Colton joining the team, Colorado was ranked low in the national recruiting rankings. according to 247Sports, ranked 97th overall.
However, Colton gives “Coach Prime” and the Buffs unexpected new vigor. Before selecting CU, Sanders entices a recruit who has been offered by 34 different institutions.
At 6-foot-1 and 200 pounds, Colton is deemed undersized, but he adds interest for the defense’s future. Colton’s closing speed is destructive and explosive. He was trusted by Newnan High to assault the quarterback based on that quality. Even his high school hurried him in various ways.
Colton appears to be a promising future edge rusher for Colorado head coach Deion Sanders and defensive coordinator Robert Livingston. Linebackers coach Andre’ Hart played a key role in bringing Colton to Boulder, but Colton told Chad Simmons of On3/Rivals that it was the entire coaching staff—not just Hart and Sanders—that influenced his decision.
“The whole staff played a part in my commitment,” Colton said. “They bring over 200 years of NFL experience to the table. They’re focused on developing players and know what it takes to succeed, so I’m excited to join them and be part of the change.”
Colton’s pledge marks another recruiting success this summer for “Coach Prime” and his staff. The Buffaloes’ 2025 class began gaining momentum with four-star cornerback Preston Ashley’s commitment on June 24.
Thanks to Colton’s addition, Colorado’s national recruiting ranking has improved from No. 97 to No. 79 according to 247Sports. On3/Rivals currently has the Buffs ranked even higher at No. 65.