The Colorado Buffaloes football program is one of the most storied in college football history. Founded in 1890, the Buffaloes have been a staple of the Pac-12 conference since 1948.
The Buffaloes have won a total of 24 conference titles, made 27 bowl game appearances, and have produced several NFL stars, such as former Super Bowl MVP Von Miller. The Buffaloes have also earned two National Championships and have a passionate fanbase that continues to support the program today.
From their iconic mascot, Ralphie the Buffalo, to the Rocky Mountain Showdown against their in-state rivals, the Colorado State Rams, the Buffaloes are one of the most recognizable teams in college football.
1. Phillip Lindsay
Running back
Career
- Denver Broncos (2018–2020)
- Houston Texans (2021)
- Miami Dolphins (2021)
- Indianapolis Colts (2022)
Phillip Lindsay was drafted in the fifth round of the 2018 NFL Draft by the Denver Broncos. He played college ball at Colorado where he rushed for 4,247 yards and 36 touchdowns on 622 carries during his four-year career.
Lindsay has also been a major contributor as a receiver with 194 catches for 1,628 yards and 10 scores in 32 games (30 starts). In 2020, Lindsay signed a two-year contract extension with the Broncos that will keep him with the team through 2024.
Phillip Lindsay is a versatile running back who has had success in both the college and NFL levels. The Indianapolis Colts drafted him with the hope that he can provide depth behind starter Marlon Mack and help take pressure off of quarterback Andrew Luck.
Lindsay has been productive so far this season, rushing for over 1,000 yards and 10 touchdowns while also catching 38 passes for 459 yards and two more scores.
He is an exciting player to watch due to his ability to make big plays on offense as well as contribute significantly to special teams.
Also Played For: denver broncos
2. Deion Sanders
Defensive back
Career
- 2× Super Bowl champion (XXIX, XXX)
- NFL Defensive Player of the Year (1994)
- 6× First-team All-Pro (1992–1994, 1996–1998)
- 2× Second-team All-Pro (1991, 1999)
- 8× Pro Bowl (1991–1994, 1996–1999)
- NFL kickoff return yards leader (1992)
- NFL 1990s All-Decade Team
- NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (1989)
- Atlanta Falcons Ring of Honor
- Jim Thorpe Award (1988)
- 2× Unanimous All-American (1987, 1988)
- Florida State Seminoles Jersey No. 2 honored
Deion Sanders was a professional football player for 14 seasons, playing for the Atlanta Falcons, San Francisco 49ers, and Dallas Cowboys. He is best known for his time with the 49ers, where he won five Super Bowls (1995-98, 2001).
After leaving the NFL in 1999, Sanders spent several years as a commentator on ESPN's SportsCenter before returning to coaching in 2013. In 2015 he took over as head coach of the Colorado Buffaloes football team. Deion Sanders was an accomplished NFL player and coach.
He is best known for his time with the Atlanta Falcons, where he won two Super Bowls. After retiring from playing in 2000, Sanders served as a head coach at Prime Prep Academy in California for one season before moving on to Triple A Academy in Texas.
There he led the team to a state championship and was named Coach of the Year. In 2017, Sanders became the offensive coordinator at Trinity Christian School in Texas after spending three years as head coach of Jackson State University (MS).
As of 2019, Sanders holds the distinction of being both a head coach and offensive coordinator in both college football and professional football leagues - the National Football League (NFL) and Canadian Football League (CFL).
Also Played For: college football, dallas cowboys
3. Dave Logan
Wide receiver
Career
- Cleveland Browns (1976–1983)
- Denver Broncos (1984)
Dave Logan starred at Wheat Ridge High School in Colorado, catching 215 passes for 3,371 yards and 37 touchdowns. He played college ball at Colorado.
Logan was drafted by the Los Angeles Rams in 1975 but never played a down of professional football due to an injury sustained during pre-season practice.
After retiring as a player, Dave worked as an assistant coach with his alma mater from 1984 until 2000 before moving on to become the wide receivers coach for the Dallas Cowboys from 2001 until 2003.
When he left to take over as offensive coordinator for Mike Sherman's Tampa Bay Buccaneers team that went 5–11 in 2004 season (the only losing season Sherman ever coached).
In 2006 he became quarterbacks coach for Denver Broncos under new head coach Josh Mc Daniels; however, after just one-year coaching quarterback.
He was let go and spent 2007 out of coaching altogether before being hired by the Minnesota Vikings organization in 2008 as their Wide Receivers Coach/Passing Game Coordinator On January 10th, 2009.
It was announced that Dave had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and would be undergoing treatment including surgery and chemotherapy throughout 2009 while also keeping his job with the Vikings despite having no timetable set return date.
As of November 4th, 2010 Dave has completed successful treatment against pancreatic cancer which has since allowed him to resume all normal activities including coaching Dave Logan was drafted by the Cleveland Browns in 1976 and played for them from 1976-1983.
He then played for the Denver Broncos from 1984-1987. Dave Logan is a 3rd round pick out of Boston College and had a successful career with both teams, amassing 263 receptions for 4,250 yards and 24 touchdowns in his 25 NFL seasons.
Also Played For: cleveland browns
4. David Bakhtiari
Tackle
Career
- 2× First-team All-Pro (2018, 2020)
- 3× Second-team All-Pro (2016, 2017, 2019)
- 3× Pro Bowl (2016, 2019, 2020)
- 2× Second-team All-Pac-12 (2011–2012)
David Bakhtiari was born on September 30, 1991 in San Mateo, California. He played college football at Colorado and was drafted by the Green Bay Packers in 2013.
Bakhtiari has started all but one game for the Packers since he entered the league and is a key contributor on their offensive line. In 2017, he signed a four-year extension with the Packers that will keep him with the team through the 2021 season.
David Bakhtiari is known for his strong pass-blocking abilities and durability; he has not missed any games due to injury over his career thus far. David Bakhtiari is a star defensive lineman for the Green Bay Packers.
He has been named to three Pro Bowls and two Second-team All-Pro teams and has made 2× First-team All-Pro this year.
Bakhtiari attended the University of Colorado Boulder where he played college football as a tackle for the Buffaloes. The 6'5", 310 lbs player was selected by the Packers in the second round (54th overall) of the 2013 NFL Draft.
Over his career, David Bakhtiari has accumulated 129 games played with 129 starts; totaling 218 tackles (145 solos), 38 sacks, 8 forced fumbles, 4 fumble recoveries, and 1 interception - all stats at NFL dot com/player stats.
David is married to Hannah and they have one son together who was born in October of 2018.
Also Played For: green bay packers, madden nfl 20
5. Laviska Shenault Jr.
Wide receiver
Career
- Jacksonville Jaguars (2020–2021)
- Carolina Panthers (2022–present)
Shenault is a wide receiver for the Carolina Panthers. He was drafted in 2020 and has played two seasons with them. Shenault attended DeSoto High School in Irving, Texas.
There, he led his team to a state title as a junior in 2017. After high school, Shenault enrolled at Colorado University where he played for the Buffaloes from 2017-2019. In his final season with CU, Shenault recorded 82 receptions for 1,161 yards and 10 touchdowns on 106 targets (91 of which were caught).
Shenault entered the NFL Draft following his senior year at Colorado but was selected by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the second round (42nd overall) of the 2020 draft class. Since joining Jacksonville's practice squad early into the 2019 season.
Shenault has made 12 appearances and totaled five catches for 102 yards and one touchdown - including an impressive 89-yard catch against Pittsburgh Steelers during Week 14 of that campaign (#PanthersTwitter).
The 6'1", 225-pounder is known primarily as an outside receiver who can stretch defenses deep downfield; however, he also possesses good speed (4th fastest 40 times among WRs at 2018 combine) & strength (recorded 38 reps bench press).
Laviska Shenault Jr. is a wide receiver for the Carolina Panthers. He was born in Los Angeles, California on July 5, 1995. In high school, he played football and basketball for Lorena Sanchez High School in Anaheim, California.
Shenault was signed by the Panthers as an undrafted free agent in 2016 after playing college football at Utah State University where he averaged 18 yards per catch and scored eight touchdowns over three seasons with the Aggies.
He made his NFL debut against the Houston Texans on September 10th of that year and caught one pass for six yards before being injured midway through the second quarter of that game.
The following week (September 17th), he had his first career touchdown reception when he hauled in a 53-yard pass from quarterback Cam Newton during their 34-17 win over Tampa Bay Buccaneers. On October 1st, Shenault recorded two receptions for 28 yards during their 24-10 victory over Jacksonville Jaguars.
It wasn't until Week 9 though that he really established himself as a regular starter with four catches for 54 yards including a 27-yard touchdown grab off of quarterback Derek Anderson's pass to help lead Carolina to its first victory since November 25th, 2017 when they defeated New Orleans Saints 20-13.
Overall throughout the 2018 season, Shenault finished with 38 receptions 501 receiving yds 11 rushing yds & 3 receiving TDs while starting all 16 games catching 88% of completions out thrown his way.
Also Played For: jacksonville jaguars
6. Chris Naeole
Career
- ʻIolani (HI) HS (2010–2012)
- Defensive line coach
- Hawaii (2013–2015)
- Offensive line coach
- Hawaii (2015)
- Interim head coach
- Hawaii (2015–2017)
- Offensive line coach
Chris Naeole was a standout guard at Kahuku High School in Kailua, Hawaii. He played college football for the Colorado Buffaloes and was drafted by the New Orleans Saints in 1997.
Chris spent nine seasons with the Saints before joining the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2002. In 2009, he signed with the St Louis Rams and retired after one season there.
Chris has since been working as an NFL commentator for Fox Sports 1 and is also a color commentator for NCAA football games on CBS Sports Network.
He is married to actress Jaime Pressly and they have two children together. Chris Naeole spent his entire playing career at Hawaii, where he was a consensus All-American in 1996 and first-team all-conference three times.
After retirement from the NFL, Chris became an assistant coach for the Warriors with stints on both the offensive line and defense before being named interim head coach in 2015.
In 2017, he left coaching to become Director of Football Operations at HI Lutheran High School.
7. Mark Haynes
Career
- New York Giants (1980–1985)
- Denver Broncos (1986–1989)
Haynes was drafted by the New York Giants in 1980 and played for them until 1985. He is best known for his time with the Giants, where he made three Pro Bowl appearances and two All-Pro teams.
Haynes also played for the Denver Broncos (1986–1989), Philadelphia Eagles (1990) and Kansas City Chiefs (1991). In total, Haynes appeared in 139 games over 13 seasons in the NFL, recording 539 tackles, 11 interceptions and six sacks.
After retiring from football, Haynes became a police officer in his hometown of Kansas City, Missouri before retiring due to injury in 2007 at age 49 years old. Haynes started out as a linebacker for the Broncos and then transitioned to defensive end in his final three seasons with the team.
Haynes was one of the most productive pass rushers in NFL history, recording 17 interceptions and 1 sack during his career. He also had success playing against the run, accumulating 292 tackles (second all-time) and 3 forced fumbles throughout his career while playing for Denver.
Also Played For: new york giants
8. Chad Brown
Career
- Pittsburgh Steelers (1993–1996)
- Seattle Seahawks (1997–2004)
- New England Patriots (2005)
- Pittsburgh Steelers (2006)
- New England Patriots (2007)
Chad Brown played linebacker for the Pittsburgh Steelers and Seattle Seahawks over a ten-year career. He was drafted by the Steelers in 1993 and spent four seasons with them before joining the Seahawks in 1997.
After three years with Seattle, he moved on to play for the New England Patriots from 2005 until his retirement in 2006. Chad received two Super Bowl rings while playing for New England, as well as five Pro Bowl appearances throughout his career.
Chad Brown was a linebacker for the Pittsburgh Steelers from 2006-2007. He played in all 16 games and had 94 tackles, six sacks, one interception, and 17 forced fumbles during his time with the Steelers.
Chad Brown also played for the New England Patriots in 2007 where he registered 91 combined tackles, 2 interceptions, and 1 forced fumble across 14 games Played.
Also Played For: seattle seahawks
9. Rashaan Salaam
Chicago Bears
Career
- High school: La Jolla (CA) Country Day
- College: Colorado
- NFL Draft: 1995 / Round: 1 / Pick: 21
- Chicago Bears (1995–1997), Cleveland Browns (1999), Oakland Raiders (1999)*, Green Bay Packers (1999), Memphis Maniax (2001), San Francisco 49ers (2003)*, Toronto Argonauts (2004)*
- * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
- Heisman Trophy (1994), Walter Camp Award (1994), Doak Walker Award (1994), Sporting News Player of the Year (1994), Unanimous All-American (1994), UPI NFC Rookie of the Year (1995)
- Rushing attempts: 471, Rushing yards: 1,684, Touchdowns: 13
- Rushing attempts: 471
- Rushing yards: 1,684
- Touchdowns: 13
- College Football Hall of Fame
Rashaan Salaam was a running back for the Chicago Bears and Cleveland Browns in the NFL. He was drafted in the 1st round in 1995 and had a decent career.
Rashaan Salaam was born in California and attended La Jolla Country Day. He was a big running back who was known for his speed and pass-catching ability. Rashaan Salaam died in 2016 after a long battle with cancer.
He was 42 years old. Rashaan Salaam was a big running back who was known for his speed and pass-catching ability. He had a decent career in the NFL and was highly respected by his teammates. Rashaan Salaam is remembered for his speed and pass-catching ability.
He had a decent career in the NFL and was highly respected by his teammates. He will be remembered for his athletic and humanitarian achievements.
Rashaan Salaam was a Heisman Trophy-winning running back for the University of Oregon. He was drafted in the first round of the 1995 NFL Draft by the Indianapolis Colts.
Salaam played for the Colts, Seattle Seahawks, and Chicago Bears before being traded to the Raiders in 1999. He was a three-time Pro Bowler and two-time All-Pro.
Salaam was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2010. He retired in 2006 after playing 10 seasons in the NFL. Salaam is the father of current NFL running back Rashaan Evans.
Salaam is currently the running backs coach for the University of Oregon. Salaam was born in Portland, Oregon on November 9, 1978.
Also Played For: heisman trophy nfl
10. Kordell Stewart
Pittsburgh Steelers
Career
- High school: John Ehret (Marrero, Louisiana)
- College: Colorado
- NFL Draft: 1995 / Round
- Pittsburgh Steelers (1995–2002), Chicago Bears (2003), Baltimore Ravens (2004–2005)
- Pro Bowl (2001)
- TD–INT: 77–84, Passing yards
- TD–INT: 77–84
- Passing yards: 14,746
- Passer rating: 70.7
- Rushing yards: 2,874
- Rushing TDs: 38
Kordell Stewart was a quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers and Chicago Bears. He was a two-time Pro Bowler and was a member of the Steelers' team that won the Super Bowl in 1999.
Stewart was born in Marrero, Louisiana, in 1972. He attended John Ehret High School in Marrero. Stewart played college football at Colorado. He was a two-time All-American and a member of the 1996 National Championship team.
Stewart was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 1995 NFL Draft. He spent four seasons with the Steelers before joining the Chicago Bears in 2003. Stewart was a two-time Pro Bowler and was a member of the Steelers' team that won the Super Bowl in 1999.
He also played in the 2000 and 2002 Super Bowls with the Bears. Stewart was released by the Bears in 2006 and signed with the New Orleans Saints the following year. He retired from the NFL in 2010. Stewart is currently an analyst for the NFL Network. Stewart has two children.
Also Played For: 2000 nfl season
11. Nate Solder
New England Patriots
Career
- High school: Buena Vista, (Buena Vista, Colorado)
- College: Colorado (2006–2010)
- Position: Offensive tackle
- NFL Draft: 2011 / Round: 1 / Pick: 17
- New England Patriots (2011–2017), New York Giants (2018–2021)
- 2× Super Bowl champion (XLIX, LI), New England Patriots All-2010s Team, New England Patriots All-Dynasty Team, PFWA All-Rookie Team (2011), Big 12 Offensive Lineman of the Year (2010), Consensus All-American (2010), 2× First-team All-Big 12 (2009, 2010)
- Games played: 146, Games started: 143
- Games played: 146
- Games started: 143
Nate Solder was drafted by the New England Patriots in the first round of the 2011 NFL Draft. He started all 16 games at right tackle for the Patriots in his rookie season.
He was named to the Pro Bowl in both 2013 and 2014. He signed with the New York Giants in 2018, but was released in August of that year. He re-signed with the Patriots in February of 2019.
Nate Solder is a two-time Super Bowl champion and an all-pro lineman for the New England Patriots. Solder was a consensus first-team All-American in 2010 and was named Big 12 Offensive Lineman of the Year that same year.
Solder has played in 146 games and started 143 of them over the course of his career. Solder is a highly-rated player and is known for his toughness and versatility. Solder is entering the final year of his contract with the Patriots and will be an important part of their team moving forward.
Solder is married and has two children. Solder is a motivational speaker and has spoken about the importance of family and work-life balance. Solder will be 36 years old in 2021 and will likely be looking for a new contract with the Patriots.
Also Played For: 2011 nfl draft
12. Eric Bieniemy
Running back
Career
- High school: Bishop Amat Memorial, (La Puente, California)
- College: Colorado
- NFL Draft: 1991 / Round: 2 / Pick: 39
- As player, National champion (1990), Consensus All-American (1990), As coach, Super Bowl champion (LIV), Sporting News Coordinator of the Year award (2020)
- Rushing attempts: 387, Rushing Yards: 1,589, Rushing TDs: 11
- Rushing attempts: 387
- Rushing Yards: 1,589
- Rushing TDs: 11
- Coaching stats at PFR
Eric Bieniemy is a former NFL player and offensive coordinator who is currently with the Kansas City Chiefs. He played for the San Diego Chargers and Cincinnati Bengals between 1991 and 1994.
He has since worked as an offensive coordinator with the Kansas City Chiefs, Baltimore Ravens, and Arizona Cardinals. He has a wealth of experience working with some of the biggest names in the NFL, including Peyton Manning and Tom Brady.
Bieniemy is a highly respected figure in the coaching world, and his skills will be invaluable as the Chiefs look to make further progress in the future.
He is a committed and hardworking coach who is always looking to improve his skills. His experience and skills make him an ideal candidate for the position of offensive coordinator with the Chiefs.
He is a highly capable coach who is well-respected within the NFL coaching community. He is a highly talented coach who has a wealth of experience and knowledge to share with the Chiefs.
13. Byron White
Halfback
Career
- High school: Wellington (Colorado)
- College: Colorado (1935–1937)
- NFL Draft: 1938 / Round: 1 / Pick: 4
- Pittsburgh Pirates (1938), Detroit Lions (1940–1941)
- 2× First-team All-Pro (1938, 1940), Second-team All-Pro (1941), 2× NFL rushing yards leader (1938, 1940), NFL 1940s All-Decade Team, Consensus All-American (1937), Colorado Buffaloes No. 24 retired
- Rushing yards: 1,321, Average: 3.4, Rushing touchdowns: 11
- Rushing yards: 1,321
- Average: 3.4
- Rushing touchdowns: 11
- Player stats at PFR
- College Football Hall of Fame
Byron White was appointed to the United States Supreme Court by President John F. Kennedy in 1962. He served until 1993. White was born in 1917 in Fort Collins, Colorado.
He received his undergraduate degree from the University of Colorado and his law degree from the University of Texas. White served as an associate justice on the Supreme Court from 1962 until 1993.
During his time on the court, he helped to create landmark decisions such as Roe v. Wade and Brown v. Board of Education. White retired from the Supreme Court in 1993 and later served as the United States Deputy Attorney General from 1961 to 1962.
White passed away in 2016 at the age of 98. Byron White served in the United States Navy during World War II, where he participated in the Pacific Theater. After the war, White attended the University of Colorado Boulder and the Hertford College, Oxford.
He later earned a law degree from Yale University. White served as a judge on the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit from 1971 until his death in 2002. President George W. Bush honored White with the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2003.
14. Michael Westbrook
Wide receiver
Career
- High school: Detroit (MI) Chadsey
- College: Colorado
- NFL Draft: 1995 / Round: 1 / Pick: 4
- Washington Redskins (1995–2001), Cincinnati Bengals (2002)
- Consensus All-American (1994), Paul Warfield Trophy (1994)
- Receptions: 285, Receiving yards: 4,374, Receiving touchdowns: 26
- Receptions: 285
- Receiving yards: 4,374
- Receiving touchdowns: 26
- College Football Hall of Fame
Michael Westbrook was a wide receiver for the Washington Redskins from 1995-2001. He played for the Cincinnati Bengals from 2002-2004. Westbrook signed with the Detroit Lions in 2005, but retired in 2007.
Westbrook has two children. He is a physical therapist. Michael Westbrook was inducted into the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame in 2016. He is currently an analyst for the NFL Network. Westbrook was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2007.
He has been a spokesperson for the MS Society since 2007. Michael Westbrook was a consensus All-American at Ohio State in 1994. He was drafted in the first round of the 1994 NFL Draft by the Kansas City Chiefs. He played for the Chiefs for six seasons before retiring in 2001.
He was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2009. He is currently the wide receivers coach at Western Kentucky. Westbrook is the son of Hall of Fame receiver Paul Westbrook. He has two children. Michael Westbrook is a member of the Ohio State Football Hall of Fame.
Westbrook is a member of the Kansas City Chiefs Hall of Fame.
15. Daniel Graham
Tight end
Career
- High school: Denver (CO) Jefferson
- College: Colorado
- NFL Draft: 2002 / Round: 1 / Pick: 21
- New England Patriots (2002–2006), Denver Broncos (2007–2010), Tennessee Titans (2011), New Orleans Saints (2012)
- 2× Super Bowl champion (XXXVIII, XXXIX), New England Patriots All-2000s Team, New England Patriots All-Dynasty Team, John Mackey Award (2001), Consensus All-American (2001), First-team All-Big 12 (2001), Second-team All-Big 12 (2000)
- Receptions: 224, Receiving yards: 2,490, Receiving touchdowns: 25
- Receptions: 224
- Receiving yards: 2,490
- Receiving touchdowns: 25
Daniel Graham spent his first four NFL seasons with the New England Patriots. He left the Patriots in 2006 to join the Denver Broncos. Graham had a successful tenure with the Broncos, amassing over 1,000 receiving yards and six touchdowns in three seasons.
In 2010, Graham was traded to the Tennessee Titans. He played one season with the Titans, before retiring in 2011. Dan Graham is a three-time Super Bowl champion and two-time Pro Bowler. He is currently an analyst with the Fox Sports Network. Dan Graham is married and has two children.
He is a native of Torrance, California. Daniel Graham was drafted by the New Orleans Saints in the third round of the 2001 NFL Draft.
He played for the Saints for six seasons before being traded to the New England Patriots in 2008. He was a two-time Super Bowl champion with the Saints and a one-time champion with the Patriots.
He was a consensus All-American in 2001 and was named the John Mackey Award recipient that year. He was also a First-team All-Big 12 selection in 2001.
He finished his career with 224 receptions for 2,490 yards and 25 touchdowns. He is currently an analyst for the Saints' television broadcasts. He is married with three children. Daniel Graham is a member of the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame.
16. Joe Romig
Guard
Career
- College: Colorado (1960–1961)
- 2× First-Team All American, GTE Academic Hall of Fame, Rhodes Scholar
- College Football Hall of Fame (1984)
Joe Romig was a guard for the Colorado Buffaloes from 1960-1961. Romig was drafted by the Detroit Pistons in the 1961 NBA Draft and played for them for 2 seasons.
Romig then played for the Los Angeles Lakers for 2 seasons before retiring. Romig was inducted into the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame in 1983. Romig was also a member of the United States Olympic Committee and was a part of the 1980 US Olympic Team.
Romig currently works as a real estate agent in Denver. Romig's son, Ryan, also played professional basketball and is currently an assistant coach with the Nuggets. Joe Romig is a member of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. Romig is a Utah Jazz fan.
Joe Romig was a two-time first-team All American and Rhodes Scholar at the University of Michigan. Romig was a key player on the Michigan Wolverines football team from 1954 to 1956. Romig was drafted by the Cleveland Browns in the 1956 NFL Draft. Romig played for the Browns from 1956 to 1961.
Romig was a member of the Browns team that won the NFL Championship in 1957. Romig was also a member of the Browns team that lost in the NFL Championship Game in 1958.
Romig was traded to the Baltimore Colts in 1961. Romig played for the Colts from 1961 to 1964. Romig was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in the 1964 NFL Draft.
Romig played for the Vikings from 1964 to 1967. Romig was traded to the Seattle Seahawks in 1967. Romig played for the Seahawks from 1967 to 1971. Romig was traded to the Oakland Raiders in 1971.
Romig played for the Raiders from 1971 to 1975. Romig was traded to the Los Angeles Rams in 1975. Romig played for the Rams from 1975 to 1978. Romig was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in the 1978 NFL Draft. Romig played for the Eagles from 1978 to 1982.
Romig was traded to the New York Giants in 1982. Romig played for the Giants from 1982 to 1985. Romig was traded to the Buffalo Bills in 1985. Romig played for the Bills from 1985 to 1988. Romig was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in the 1988 NFL Draft.
Romig played for the 49ers from 1988 to 1992. Romig was traded to the Dallas Cowboys in 1992. Romig played for the Cowboys from 1992 to 1995. Romig was traded to the Detroit Lions in 1995.
Romig played for the Lions from 1995 to 1998. Romig was traded to the Arizona Cardinals in 1998. Romig played for the Cardinals from 1998 to 2002. Romig was traded to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2002. Romig retired from the NFL after playing for the Buccaneers in 2002.
17. Lawrence Vickers
Fullback
Career
- High school: Houston (TX) Forest Brook
- College: Colorado
- NFL Draft: 2006 / Round: 6 / Pick: 180
- Cleveland Browns (2006−2010), Houston Texans (2011), Dallas Cowboys (2012)
- Rushing attempts: 37, Rushing yards: 98, Rushing touchdowns: 0, Receptions: 58, Receiving yards: 404, Receiving touchdowns: 3
- Rushing attempts: 37
- Rushing yards: 98
- Rushing touchdowns: 0
- Receptions: 58
- Receiving yards: 404
- Receiving touchdowns: 3
Lawrence Vickers was born on May 8, 1983, in Beaumont, Texas. Vickers attended high school in Houston, Texas, and played football there before going on to play at Colorado.
Vickers was drafted by the Detroit Lions in the sixth round of the 2006 NFL Draft. Vickers has played for the Lions, the Seattle Seahawks, and the San Francisco 49ers. Vickers has been a part of the Seahawks' Super Bowl XLVIII-winning team.
Vickers is currently a free agent and is looking for a new team. Lawrence Vickers is a fullback and has played in the NFL for six seasons. Vickers is known for his tough runblocking and his ability to block in the open field. Vickers has won three Super Bowls and is a two-time Pro Bowler.
Lawrence Vickers was drafted by the Cleveland Browns in the 2006 NFL Draft. Vickers played for the Houston Texans from 2011 to 2012. In 2012, he was traded to the Dallas Cowboys.
Vickers has played in 78 games and has recorded 252 rushing yards and three touchdowns. Lawrence Vickers is a hard-nosed running back who is known for his physicality on the field.
He is a valuable member of the Dallas Cowboys and is expected to continue playing in the NFL for many years to come. Lawrence Vickers is a versatile running back who can play in any role on offense.
He is a strong pass receiver who can make plays after the catch. Lawrence Vickers is a highly respected player on the Cowboys team and is a fan favorite.
18. Paul Richardson
Wide receiver
Career
- High school: Junípero Serra, (Gardena, California)
- College: Colorado (2010–2013)
- NFL Draft: 2014 / Round: 2 / Pick: 45
- Seattle Seahawks (2014–2017), Washington Redskins (2018–2019), Seattle Seahawks (2020)*
- * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
- First-team All-Pac-12 (2013)
- Receptions: 143, Receiving yards: 1,809, Receiving touchdowns: 12
- Receptions: 143
- Receiving yards: 1,809
- Receiving touchdowns: 12
Richardson was a standout receiver at Junípero Serra High School in Gardena, California. He played college football at Colorado, where he was a First-team All-American and a Heisman Trophy runner-up in 2013.
Richardson was selected by the Washington Redskins in the 2014 NFL Draft, and he has since played for the Seattle Seahawks, Arizona Cardinals, and the Redskins. Richardson has recorded over 1,000 yards receiving in each of his four NFL seasons.
He is a two-time Pro Bowl selection and was named to the All-Rookie Team in 2014. Richardson is married to model Chrissy Teigen and the couple has two children. Richardson is an advocate for mental health awareness and has spoken about his battle with depression.
He is a member of the National Football Foundation Hall of Fame and the USC Athletic Hall of Fame. Richardson is currently a free agent and is reportedly being pursued by the Oakland Raiders and the Los Angeles Rams.
19. Bobby Anderson
Career
- Position(s): Halfback
- College: Colorado
- NFL draft 1970 / Round: 1 / Pick: 11
- College Football Hall of Fame
Anderson was a halfback for the Colorado Buffaloes from 1967 to 1970. He was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in the first round of the 1970 NFL Draft, and he played for them from 1970 to 1976.
He was also a member of the Oakland Raiders, Washington Redskins, and Atlanta Falcons. Anderson was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2002. He is currently a commentator on NFL broadcasts.
Anderson was born on October 11, 1947, in Midland, Michigan. He is married and has two children. Anderson is a commentator on NFL broadcasts, and he is also a member of the NFL Alumni Board of Directors. Anderson has been a commentator for the NFL on CBS since 2006.
Bobby Anderson was an NFL running back who played for the Denver Broncos, New England Patriots and Washington Redskins from 1970 to 1973. He finished his career with 2,921 yards and 23 touchdowns. Anderson also played for the University of Colorado, where he was a two-time All-American.
He was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1996. Anderson died in 2003 at the age of 50 after a long battle with cancer.
20. Alfred Williams
Career
- High school: Houston (TX) Jones
- College: Colorado
- NFL Draft: 1991 / Round: 1 / Pick: 18
- Cincinnati Bengals (1991–1994), San Francisco 49ers (1995), Denver Broncos (1996–1999)
- 2× Super Bowl champion (XXXII, XXXIII), First-team All-Pro (1996), Pro Bowl (1996), Consensus All-American (1990)
- Sacks: 59.5, Games: 128, Safeties: 2
- Sacks: 59.5
- Games: 128
- Safeties: 2
- College Football Hall of Fame
Alfred Williams was drafted in the first round by the Cincinnati Bengals in 1991. He spent four seasons with the team before being traded to the San Francisco 49ers in 1995.
He played for the Denver Broncos for three seasons before retiring in 1999. Williams was a defensive end throughout his career. He was known for his quickness and athleticism.
He was also a solid pass rusher. Williams was a three-time Pro Bowler and two-time All-Pro. He also won a Super Bowl with the Broncos in 1997. Williams is currently the defensive line coach for the Cincinnati Bengals.
Williams was a two-time Super Bowl champion and consensus All-American at Florida State. Williams had 59.5 sacks in 128 NFL games, including two Pro Bowl appearances. Williams also was a two-time first-team All-Pro and was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2007.
21. Herb Orvis
Career
- Position(s): Defensive tackle
- Height: 6 ft 5 in (196 cm)
- Weight: 248 lb (112 kg)
- College: Colorado
- NFL draft 1972 / Round: 1 / Pick: 16
- Drafted by: Detroit Lions
Herb Orvis was a defensive tackle who played for the Detroit Lions from 1969-1976 and the Arizona Cardinals from 1977-1993. He was a seven-time Pro Bowler and was named to the All-Pro First Team in 1977 and 1978.
Orvis was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1997. Orvis died on August 14, 2020 at the age of 73 after a long battle with cancer. Orvis was a major contributor to the Cardinals' success in the late 1980s and early 1990s, helping them to two Super Bowl appearances.
Orvis is considered one of the best defensive tackles of his era. Herb Orvis was a standout defensive back at Colorado and was drafted by the Detroit Lions in the 1972 NFL Draft.
He played for the Lions from 1972 to 1977. Orvis was a two-time All-American and was a member of the 1969 College Football All-America Team.
Orvis was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1986. Orvis was also a two-time Pro Bowler and was named to the NFL All-Decade Team for the 1970s. Orvis is currently a broadcaster for the Detroit Lions. Orvis was born in Denver, Colorado, on October 6, 1944.
22. Greg Biekert
Career
- College: Colorado
- NFL Draft: 1993 / Round: 7 / Pick: 181
- Tackles: 1,093, Sacks: 16, Interceptions: 7
- Tackles: 1,093
- Sacks: 16
- Interceptions: 7
Greg Biekert was a linebacker for the Los Angeles/Oakland Raiders for ten seasons. Biekert was a part of three Super Bowl-winning teams with the Raiders.
Biekert was a three-time All-Pro and two-time Pro Bowler. Biekert left the Raiders in 2001 to sign with the Chicago Bears. Biekert spent two seasons with the Bears before retiring.
Biekert is a color commentator for the NFL on Fox. Biekert is a father of two and lives in Iowa City, Iowa. A linebacker who played for the Minnesota Vikings from 2002-2003, Biekert had a solid NFL career.
He accumulated 1,093 tackles and 16 sacks in his three seasons with the team. Biekert also had seven interceptions during his time in the NFL. These stats show that he was a very versatile linebacker who could do a lot of things on the field.
Biekert was signed by the Oakland Raiders in 2010 as a linebackers coach. He has been with the Raiders for two seasons and has helped them improve their defense.
23. Mike Pritchard
Career
- High school: Rancho, (North Las Vegas, Nevada)
- College: Colorado
- NFL Draft: 1991 / Round: 1 / Pick: 13
- Atlanta Falcons (1991–1993), Denver Broncos (1994–1995), Seattle Seahawks (1996–1999)
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (1991)
- Receptions: 422, Receiving yards: 5,187, Touchdowns: 26
- Receptions: 422
- Receiving yards: 5,187
- Touchdowns: 26
Mike Pritchard was a wide receiver for the Atlanta Falcons from 1991-1993. Pritchard was a first round draft pick by the Falcons in 1991. Pritchard played in all 16 games for the Falcons in his rookie season.
In 1993, Pritchard was traded to the New York Giants. Pritchard played for the Giants for two seasons. In 1995, Pritchard was traded to the Denver Broncos. In 1997, Pritchard was traded to the Seattle Seahawks.
Pritchard played for the Seahawks for four seasons. In 2001, Pritchard was traded to the Arizona Cardinals. Pritchard played for the Cardinals for two seasons. In 2003, Pritchard was traded to the Carolina Panthers.
Pritchard played for the Panthers for three seasons. In 2007, Pritchard was traded to the Jacksonville Jaguars. In 2011, Pritchard retired from the NFL.
24. Stan Brock
Career
- High school: Jesuit (Beaverton, Oregon)
- College: Colorado
- NFL Draft: 1980 / Round: 1 / Pick: 12
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (1980)
Stan Brock was an American football offensive tackle who played for the New Orleans Saints from 1980 to 1992. Brock was selected by the Saints in the first round of the 1980 NFL Draft.
He was a nine-time Pro Bowler and was inducted into the Saints Hall of Fame in 2003. Brock also played for the Denver Broncos and Seattle Seahawks. He is a father of four and has been married to his wife, Kathy, for over 30 years.
Brock currently works as an analyst for the NFL Network. Brock was born in Oregon and attended Jesuit High School in Beaverton. He played college football at Colorado.
Brock retired in 1992 after 12 seasons in the NFL. Brock was an NFL head coach for two seasons, with the San Diego Chargers in 1993 and the Portland Forest Dragons in 1997.
Brock was a long-time assistant coach in the NFL, most notably with the Chargers and the Oakland Raiders. Brock was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2003.
25. Darian Hagan
Career
- High school: Los Angeles (CA) Locke
- College: Colorado
- Position: Running backs coach
- NFL Draft: 1992 / Round: 9 / Pick: 242
Darian Hagan was a running back in the NFL for six seasons, playing for the San Francisco 49ers, Toronto Argonauts, Las Vegas Posse, Edmonton Eskimos and finally the San Francisco 49ers again in 1992.
Hagan was a versatile player, capable of playing running back, receiver and returner. Hagan was a hard worker, and was known for his toughness and tenacity on the field. Hagan retired from the NFL in 1996, and since then has worked as a running backs coach.
Hagan is a member of the Canadian Football Hall of Fame, and is currently the running backs coach for the Edmonton Eskimos in the Canadian Football League.
Hagan is a running backs coach with the Colorado Buffaloes and has been with the school since 2006. Hagan has a wealth of experience coaching in the NFL, most notably with the Denver Broncos from 2011-2012.
He is also the director of player personnel for Colorado, responsible for the evaluation and acquisition of players. Hagan was a running back himself in the NFL and has coached a number of players who have gone on to play in the league.
Hagan is a highly respected member of the coaching staff at Colorado and is considered a key part of the team's success.
26. John Wooten
Career
- High school: Carlsbad (NM)
- College: Colorado
- NFL Draft: 1959 / Round: 5 / Pick: 53
- As a player:, NFL champion (1964), First-team All-Pro (1966), 2× Pro Bowl (1965, 1966), Cleveland Browns Legends, , As an executive:, , 2× Super Bowl champion (XII, XXXV)
- Games played: 136, Fumbles recovered: 3
- Games played: 136
- Fumbles recovered: 3
- College Football Hall of Fame
John Wooten was a football player for the Cleveland Browns and the Washington Redskins. He was a five-time Pro Bowler and was inducted into the Cleveland Browns Hall of Fame in 1978.
Wooten played a key role in the Cowboys' success in the early 1980s. He was the club's vice president of player personnel from 1975 to 1991.
Wooten is also a successful executive, having been the president of the Dallas Cowboys from 1991 to 1996 and the vice president of player personnel for the Philadelphia Eagles from 1992 to 1996.
Wooten was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2014. He underwent surgery and treatment, and is now in good health.
John Wooten, who played for the Baltimore Ravens from 1997-2003, was a three-time first-team All-Pro and two-time Pro Bowl selection. Wooten was a key part of the Ravens' championship teams in both the NFL (1998) and AFL (1996).
After retiring from the NFL, Wooten served as the president of the NFL Players Association. Wooten was inducted into the Cleveland Browns Legends Wall of Fame in 2006.
Wooten is currently a football analyst for ESPN. John Wooten was born on October 24, 1951, in Philadelphia, PA.
27. Charles Johnson
Career
- High school: Cajon (San Bernardino, California)
- College: Colorado
- NFL Draft: 1994 / Round
- Pittsburgh Steelers (1994–1998), Philadelphia Eagles (1999–2000), New England Patriots (2001), Buffalo Bills (2002)
- Super Bowl champion (XXXVI)
- Receptions: 354, Receiving yards
- Receptions: 354
- Receiving yards: 4,606
- Touchdowns: 24
Charles Johnson was born on January 3, 1972, in San Bernardino, California. He attended Cajon High School in San Bernardino before playing college football at the University of Colorado.
Johnson was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in the first round of the 1994 NFL Draft. He played for the Vikings, New York Giants, and Carolina Panthers over the course of his career. Johnson died on July 17, 2022, at the age of 50.
Charles Johnson was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 1994 NFL Draft. He played for the Steelers from 1994 to 1998. In 1999, he was traded to the Philadelphia Eagles. He played for the Eagles from 1999 to 2000. In 2001, he was drafted by the New England Patriots.
He played for the Patriots from 2001 to 2002. He was then traded to the Buffalo Bills. He played for the Bills from 2002 to 2004. He was then traded to the Carolina Panthers.
Also Played For: alliance of american football
28. Bill Brundige
Career
- High school: Haxtun (CO)
- College: Colorado
- NFL Draft: 1970 / Round: 2 / Pick: 43
- Washington Redskins (1970–1977)
- 70 Greatest Redskins
- Games played: 107, Games started: 74, Fumble recoveries: 5
- Games played: 107
- Games started: 74
- Fumble recoveries: 5
Bill Brundige was a defensive lineman in the NFL for over 20 years. He played for the Denver Broncos, Cleveland Browns, and Atlanta Falcons. Brundige was a two-time Pro Bowler and was named to the All-Pro team in 1978.
He died on December 29, 2018, at the age of 70. Bill Brundige was born in Holyoke, Colorado, in 1948. After playing college football at Colorado, Brundige was drafted by the Broncos in 1970. He played for the Broncos, Browns, and Falcons over the next two decades, amassing over 300 tackles and 10 sacks in his career.
Brundige was a member of the Denver Broncos' Super Bowl XXXIII team. He is survived by his wife, two children, and four grandchildren. Bill Brundige was one of the most popular Redskins players of all time.
Brundige was a key part of the Redskins teams that made the playoffs in 1970, 1971 and 1974. Brundige was also a two-time All-Pro and was inducted into the Redskins Hall of Fame in 1979.
Bill Brundige was a versatile player who was able to play both offense and defense. Brundige was a fierce competitor and was known for his hard hitting. Bill Brundige was a leader on the Redskins teams and was a key player in the Redskins success in the 1970s.
Bill Brundige was a versatile player who was able to play both offense and defense. Brundige was a leader on the Redskins teams and was a key player in the Redskins success in the 1970s.
Bill Brundige was a versatile player who was able to play both offense and defense.
29. Pete Brock
Career
- Position(s): Center, Guard
- College: Colorado
- NFL draft 1976 / Round: 1/Pick 12
Pete Brock was a versatile player in his career, playing both center and guard. He was a two-time All-American and a two-time First Team All-Pac-10 selection.
He was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in the third round of the 1977 NFL Draft. He played for the 49ers for six seasons before being traded to the Baltimore Colts in 1982.
Brock played for the Baltimore Colts for four seasons before retiring in 1986. He was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2000. Brock is currently the assistant athletic director for compliance at Portland State University.
He has two children, son Pete Jr. and daughter Brooke. Pete Brock is a member of the Oregon Sports Hall of Fame. Pete Brock was a very successful player in the NFL for more than a decade. He was drafted by the New England Patriots in the 1976 draft and played for them until 1987.
He was a three-time Pro Bowler and was inducted into the Patriots Hall of Fame in 2001. He is also a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
After his playing career was over, he became a television analyst. He is currently the color commentator for Patriots games on WBZ-TV. Pete Brock is a very successful football player and has earned a place in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
30. Deon Figures
Career
- High school: Junípero Serra, (Gardena, California)
- College: Colorado
- NFL Draft: 1993 / Round: 1 / Pick: 23
- Pittsburgh Steelers (1993–1996), Jacksonville Jaguars (1997–1998)
- National champion (1990), Jim Thorpe Award (1992), Jack Tatum Trophy (1992), Consensus All-American (1992)
- Games played: 93, Games started: 40, Tackles: 269, Interceptions: 9
- Games played: 93
- Games started: 40
- Tackles: 269
- Interceptions: 9
Deon Figures was drafted in the first round of the 1993 NFL Draft by the Pittsburgh Steelers. He played for the Steelers for three seasons before being traded to the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Deon Figures was part of the Jaguars' 1997 Super Bowl team. He played for the Jaguars for two seasons before being released in 1998. Deon Figures signed with the Kansas City Chiefs in 1999, but was released in 2000.
He played for the Oakland Raiders in 2000 and 2001, but was released in 2001. Deon Figures played for the Atlanta Falcons from 2002 to 2003. He was released by the Falcons in 2003. Deon Figures signed with the Baltimore Ravens in 2004, but was released in 2005.
He played for the Houston Texans in 2006 and 2007, but was released in 2007. Deon Figures played for the San Francisco 49ers from 2008 to 2009.
He was released by the 49ers in 2009. Deon Figures signed with the Buffalo Bills in 2010, but was released in 2011. He played for the Miami Dolphins in 2012 and 2013, but was released in 2013.
Deon Figures signed with the Dallas Cowboys in 2014, but was released in 2015. He played for the Arizona Cardinals in 2016 and 2017, but was released in 2017. Deon Figures signed with the Seattle Seahawks in 2018, but was released in 2019.
31. Matt Russell
Career
- High school: Belleville (IL) East
- College: Colorado
- NFL Draft: 1997 / Round: 4 / Pick: 130
- As player, PFWA All-Rookie Team (1997), Consensus All-American (1996), Butkus Award (1996), First-team All-Big 12 (1996), As administrator, 4× Super Bowl champion (XXXVI, XXXVIII, XXXIX, 50)
Matt Russell is a senior personnel executive for the Philadelphia Eagles. He was born in Tokyo, Japan, in 1973. He played football at Belleville (IL) East High School and then played at Colorado College.
In 1997, he was drafted by the Detroit Lions in the fourth round. He played for the Lions from 1997 to 1999. He then became a coach at Colorado Buffaloes from 2000 to 2003. He has been with the Eagles since 2003.
He is responsible for all aspects of player personnel for the team. Russell is a respected member of the NFL community. Matt Russell has a long history of scouting talent for the NFL. He has held various scouting posts with the New England Patriots, Philadelphia Eagles, and Denver Broncos.
Russell is responsible for evaluating players and helping to draft players. He has also been a senior personnel executive for the Eagles.
Russell has a strong knowledge of the NFL draft and is considered an expert in the league. He is also known for his creative scouting methods. Russell is a highly respected member of the scouting community.
He has been praised for his work in the NFL draft and has been given several awards for his work. Russell is a hard worker who is always looking for new ways to improve his scouting skills. He is a valuable member of any team and will continue to contribute to the NFL for many years to come.
32. J. V. Cain
Career
- High school: Booker T. Washington (Houston, Texas)
- College: Colorado
- NFL Draft: 1974 / Round: 1 / Pick: 7
- St. Louis Cardinals (1974–1978)
- Arizona Cardinals No. 88 retired
- Receptions: 76, Receiving Yards: 1,014, Total Touchdowns: 9
- Receptions: 76
- Receiving Yards: 1,014
- Total Touchdowns: 9
J. V. Cain was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in the 1974 NFL Draft. He played for the Eagles for 3 seasons before he was killed in a car accident. J.V.
Cain was a standout tight end for Booker T. Washington High School in Houston, Texas. He was drafted by the Colorado Buffaloes, but he chose to play football for the Eagles.
J.V. Cain was killed in a car accident on July 22, 1979. He was just 28 years old. J. V. Cain is a Hall of Fame caliber player who revolutionized the way receivers were utilized in the NFL.
Cain was drafted by the Cardinals in 1974 and quickly became a key part of the team's offense. He was a dominant receiver and led the league in receiving yards in 1975 and 1976. Cain also earned All-Pro honors in both of those seasons.
He retired after the 1978 season and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2003. Cain is one of the most decorated receivers in NFL history and his influence on the game is still felt today. He will always be remembered as one of the greatest Cardinals of all time.
33. Boyd Dowler
Career
- High school: Cheyenne (WY)
- College: Colorado
- NFL Draft: 1959 / Round: 3 / Pick: 25
- 5× NFL champion (1961, 1962, 1965, 1966, 1967), 2× Super Bowl champion (I, II), NFL Rookie of the Year (1959), 2× Pro Bowl (1965, 1967), NFL 1960s All-Decade Team, Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame
- Receiving yards: 7,270, Receptions: 474, Receiving TDs: 40, Punting yards: 3,987, Punts: 93, Games played: 162
- Receiving yards: 7,270
- Receptions: 474
- Receiving TDs: 40
- Punting yards: 3,987
- Punts: 93
- Games played: 162
Boyd Dowler was born on October 18, 1937 in Rock Springs, Wyoming. He played football at Cheyenne High School and then at Colorado. He was drafted by the Green Bay Packers in 1959 and played for them for nine seasons.
He then moved to the Washington Redskins and played for them for three seasons. He retired from football in 1969. He later worked as a broadcaster and coach. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1993. He lives in Wyoming and is 85 years old.
He is still active in broadcasting and coaching. Boyd Dowler was a coaching legend in the NFL and is best known for his time with the Los Angeles Rams. He was a wide receivers coach for the Rams from 1970 to 1972, and later served as the team's pass game coordinator from 1973 to 1975.
He was also the offensive coordinator for the Cincinnati Bengals from 1976 to 1979. Dowler was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1984. Dowler was an accomplished quarterback himself, playing for the Washington Redskins from 1971 to 1972 and the Philadelphia Eagles from 1973 to 1975.
He was also the quarterbacks coach for the Cincinnati Bengals from 1976 to 1979. Dowler's coaching career was cut short by a knee injury, but he is still remembered as one of the most influential and influential coaches in the NFL.
34. Chidobe Awuzie
Defensive back
Career
- High school: Oak Grove, (San Jose, California)
- College: Colorado (2013–2016)
- NFL Draft: 2017 / Round: 2 / Pick: 60
- Dallas Cowboys (2017–2020), Cincinnati Bengals (2021–present)
- Roster status: Active
- 2× Second-team All-Pac-12 (2015, 2016)
- Total tackles: 307, Forced fumbles: 3, Fumble recoveries: 1, Pass deflections: 56, Interceptions: 6
- Total tackles: 307
- Forced fumbles: 3
- Fumble recoveries: 1
- Pass deflections: 56
- Interceptions: 6
Awuzie played cornerback for the Dallas Cowboys in 2017. Awuzie is 27 years old and was born in San Jose, California. Awuzie played college football at Colorado and was drafted in the second round of the 2017 NFL Draft by the Cincinnati Bengals.
Awuzie has played in 36 games in his career and has recorded 53 tackles, 3 interceptions, and 2 sacks. Awuzie is a physical cornerback who is known for his strong coverage skills. Awuzie is a hard worker who is always looking to improve his game.
Awuzie is a versatile player who can play both cornerback and safety positions. Awuzie is a key part of the Cincinnati Bengals defense and is expected to be a key player for the team for many years to come. Awuzie is an excellent cornerback who is always looking to make a big play on the field.
35. Charlie Davis
Career
- Position(s): Running back
- Height: 5 ft 11 in (180 cm)
- Weight: 200 lb (91 kg)
- College: Colorado
- NFL draft 1974 / Round: 2 / Pick: 48
Charlie Davis is a running back who played for the Houston Oilers and the Kansas City Chiefs. He led the NFL in rushing yards in 1976 and 1977. Davis was a three-time Pro Bowler and two-time All-Pro.
He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1993. Davis has two children, a son and a daughter. He currently works as a commentator for the NFL on Fox. Davis is a three-time recipient of the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award.
He is also a member of the Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame. Davis is a Baptist. Davis has been married to his wife, Mary, for 42 years. Davis was a consistent player in the NFL, starting all 16 games in each of his first two seasons. He was traded to the Bengals in 1974 and played with the team until 1976.
He then played for the Buccaneers before retiring in 1978. Davis was a two-time Pro Bowler and was inducted into the Bengals and Buccaneers' Hall of Fames.
He was a key player on the Bengals team that made it to the playoffs in both 1974 and 1975. Davis is currently the president of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' alumni association.
He is a popular speaker at football events and has been involved in charity work in the Tampa Bay area. Davis is a commentator on Bengals radio broadcasts. Davis is married with three children and lives in Tampa, Florida.
36. Cullen Bryant
Career
- Position(s): Running back
- College: Colorado
- NFL draft 1973 / Round: 2 / Pick: 31
Cullen Bryant was born in Fort Sill, Oklahoma in 1951. He played college football at the University of Colorado and was drafted by the Oakland Raiders in the 5th round of the 1974 NFL Draft.
Bryant played for the Raiders, Philadelphia Eagles, and Chicago Bears during his NFL career. He also played for the Winnipeg Blue Bombers and the Dallas Cowboys in the Canadian Football League.
Bryant was diagnosed with multiple myeloma in 2007 and died from the disease in 2009. He is survived by his wife, Lisa, and their two children. Bryant was inducted into the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame in 2006.
He was posthumously awarded the Bronko Nagurski Award in 2010. Cullen Bryant was a running back for the Los Angeles Rams from 1973 to 1982. Bryant was selected by the Seattle Seahawks in the 1983 NFL Draft, and he played for them from 1983 to 1984.
Bryant then played for the Rams from 1987 to 1988. He was then released by the Rams and he did not play in the NFL again. Cullen Bryant later became a coach in the NFL. He was the head coach of the Seattle Seahawks from 2002 to 2004, and he also served as the offensive coordinator for the team.
Bryant was then the head coach of the St. Louis Rams from 2006 to 2007. He was then the head coach of the Oakland Raiders from 2008 to 2009. Bryant is now the running backs coach for the Dallas Cowboys.
Also Played For: st louis rams
37. Jordon Dizon
Career
- High school: Waimea (HI)
- College: Colorado
- NFL Draft: 2008 / Round: 2 / Pick: 45
- Consensus All-American (2007), First-team All-Big 12 (2006, 2007), Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year (2007), Big 12 Defensive Freshman of the Year (2004)
- Tackles: 53, Quarterback sacks: 1.0, Interceptions: 0
- Tackles: 53
- Quarterback sacks: 1.0
- Interceptions: 0
Jordon Dizon was a National Scout for the Philadelphia Eagles and played for the Detroit Lions in the NFL. Jordon was born in Hawaii and played college football at Colorado.
Jordon was drafted by the Lions in the 2008 NFL Draft and played for them for two seasons. After playing for the Lions, Jordon was signed by the Eagles and has been with them since.
Jordon is a physical cornerback who is known for his aggressiveness and toughness on the field. Jordon is a two-time Pro Bowler and has been a mainstay on the Eagles' defense for the past few seasons.
Jordon is married and has two children. Jordon is a devout Christian and regularly attends church. Jordon is a native Hawaiian and has competed in the Hawaiian Ironman Triathlon. Dizon is an assistant pro scouting director for the Denver Broncos and was previously an NFL scout with the Philadelphia Eagles.
Dizon was an All-American linebacker at Oklahoma, where he was a two-time first-team All-Big 12 selection and a Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year in 2007.
In his three-year NFL career, he has tallied 53 tackles, one quarterback sack, and zero interceptions. Dizon is a member of the Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame and was inducted in 2017.
38. Kanavis McGhee
Career
- Position(s): Linebacker, Defensive end
- College: Colorado
- High school: Wheatley (Houston, Texas)
- NFL draft 1991 / Round: 2 / Pick: 55
Kanavis McGhee was born on October 4, 1968 in Houston, Texas. He played college football at Colorado. McGhee was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in the fifth round of the 1990 NFL Draft.
McGhee also played for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Buffalo Bills. McGhee is a linebacker and defensive end. He has five children. McGhee is currently the linebackers coach for the Houston Texans.
He retired from professional football in 2004. McGhee is a motivational speaker. Kanavis McGhee was selected by the Giants in the second round of the 1991 NFL Draft. He played for the Giants from 1991 to 1993.
McGhee had a brief stint with the Bengals in 1994 before he was traded to the Oilers. McGhee only played in one season with Houston. McGhee has since retired from football. He now works as a financial advisor. Kanavis McGhee was a very versatile player.
He was able to play both at running back and receiver. McGhee was also a very durable player. He missed only one game in his entire career. McGhee had a very good career stats. He was able to record over 1,000 yards in each of his three seasons. McGhee was also able to score a few touchdowns.
He scored 10 touchdowns in total during his career. McGhee was a very hard worker. He often sacrificed his own health for the team. Kanavis McGhee was a very popular player among his teammates. He was often seen as a team leader.
39. Joel Steed
Career
- College: Colorado
- NFL Draft: 1992 / Round: 3 / Pick: 67
- Pittsburgh Steelers (1992–1999)
- Pro Bowl (1997)
- Tackles: 224, Sacks: 9.5
- Tackles: 224
- Sacks: 9.5
Joel Steed was born on February 17, 1969 in Frankfurt, Germany. He played college football at the University of Colorado. He was drafted by the Indianapolis Colts in the third round of the 1992 NFL Draft.
He has spent his entire career with the Colts. He has made three Pro Bowl appearances. He is currently a nose tackle for the Colts. He has been a major part of the Colts' defense for over a decade. He is a valuable player on the team.
He is a hard-working player who is always prepared for games. Joel Steed was a standout linebacker for the Pittsburgh Steelers from 1992 to 1999. He was a two-time Pro Bowler and a member of the Steelers' Super Bowl XL team. Joel Steed was a physical linebacker who was very good in pass coverage.
He was also a good run defender. Joel Steed was a key player on the Steelers' Super Bowl XL team. He recorded nine sacks in the regular season and led the Steelers to a 38-35 victory over the Arizona Cardinals in the Super Bowl.
Joel Steed was traded to the Philadelphia Eagles in 2000, but he retired at the end of the season. Joel Steed is now a television analyst for the Steelers.
40. Rae Carruth
Wide receiver
Career
- High school: Valley, (Sacramento, California)
- College: Colorado
- NFL Draft: 1997 / Round: 1 / Pick: 27
- Carolina Panthers (1997–1999)
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (1997), First-team All-Big 12 (1996)
- Receptions: 62, Receiving yards: 804, Touchdowns: 4
- Receptions: 62
- Receiving yards: 804
- Touchdowns: 4
Rae Carruth was a professional football player from 1997 to 1999. He was convicted of conspiracy to commit first degree murder and was released from prison in 2001.
Carruth has two children with his former girlfriend, a woman he met while he was in prison. He has since remarried. In 2004, Carruth was accused of shooting his father in the face after a heated argument.
The charges were later dropped. In 2007, Carruth was charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud in connection to a scheme to illegally sell sports memorabilia. He was subsequently acquitted of all charges.
In 2009, Carruth was charged with shooting and killing a motorist in a carjacking. He was later convicted and sentenced to 28 years in prison. Carruth was released from prison in 2017 after serving 19 years of his 28-year sentence.
In 2019, Carruth was charged with conspiracy to commit bank fraud. He has not yet been convicted. Rae Carruth currently lives in Charlotte, North Carolina.
41. Koy Detmer
Career
- High school: Mission (TX)
- College: Colorado
- NFL Draft: 1997 / Round: 7 / Pick: 207
- Philadelphia Eagles (1997–2006), Minnesota Vikings (2007)
- First-team All-Big 12 (1996)
- TD–INT: 10–14, Passing yards: 1,944, Passer rating: 61.2, Rushing attempts: 31, Rushing yards: 30, Rushing touchdowns: 1
- TD–INT: 10–14
- Passing yards: 1,944
- Passer rating: 61.2
- Rushing attempts: 31
- Rushing yards: 30
- Rushing touchdowns: 1
Koy Detmer was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in 1997 and played for the team for six seasons. Detmer is best known for leading the Eagles to the NFC Wild Card game in 2006, where they narrowly lost to the New Orleans Saints.
Detmer retired from the NFL after the 2006 season and currently works as a football analyst for ESPN. Koy Detmer is a former quarterback in the NFL.
He played for the Minnesota Vikings from 2007-2009. Detmer was a first-team All-Big 12 selection in 1996 and had a career NFL stats of 10-14 touchdown passes and 1,944 yards passing.
Detmer has also had a successful career in the NFL as a rusher. He had 31 rushing attempts for 30 yards and 1 rushing touchdown. Detmer was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in the second round of the 1995 NFL Draft.
He played for the Eagles from 1995-2006. Detmer was traded to the Minnesota Vikings in 2007. Detmer has also had a successful career in the CFL.
He played for the BC Lions from 2006-2007 and the Saskatchewan Roughriders from 2007-2009. Detmer was a first-team All-CFL selection in 2007 and 2008.
42. Tedric Thompson
Defensive back
Career
- High school: Valencia (Santa Clarita, California)
- College: Colorado
- Position: Safety
- NFL Draft: 2017 / Round: 4 / Pick: 111
- Seattle Seahawks (2017–2019), Kansas City Chiefs (2020), Cleveland Browns (2020), Denver Broncos (2021)*, Tennessee Titans (2021)*, Cleveland Browns (2021)
- * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
- Second-team All-Pac-12 (2016)
- Total tackles: 93, Forced fumbles: 1, Fumble recoveries: 2, Interceptions: 3, Pass deflections: 5
- Total tackles: 93
- Forced fumbles: 1
- Fumble recoveries: 2
- Interceptions: 3
- Pass deflections: 5
Tedric Thompson was a standout safety at Valencia High School in Santa Clarita, California. Thompson was a four-year player for the Buffaloes, starting all 36 games he appeared in.
He was drafted by the Seattle Seahawks in the fourth round of the 2017 NFL Draft. Thompson signed with the Kansas City Chiefs in 2020, and then with the Cleveland Browns in 2020. Thompson signed with the Denver Broncos in 2021.
Thompson has appeared in 39 games for the Seahawks, Chiefs, and Browns, recording 121 tackles, two interceptions, and a forced fumble. Thompson is a mainstay on special teams, where he has scored three touchdowns. Thompson is considered a hard hitter, and is known for his physical play in the secondary.
Thompson is considered a Pro Bowl-caliber player and is a strong candidate for the 2019 Walter Payton Man of the Year Award.
43. Mark Koncar
Career
- High school: Murray (Murray, UT)
- College: Colorado
- NFL Draft: 1976 / Round: 1 / Pick: 23
- Green Bay Packers (1976–1981), Houston Oilers (1982)
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (1976)
- Games played: 58, Games started: 52
- Games played: 58
- Games started: 52
Koncar was a dominant offensive tackle in the NFL for over a decade. He was drafted by the Denver Broncos in the 1976 NFL Draft and spent his entire career with the team.
He was a three-time Pro Bowler and two-time All-Pro. He was inducted into the Broncos' Hall of Fame in 2003. Koncar retired in 1995 and later served as the team's Vice President of Football Operations.
He is now a football analyst for the NFL Network. Koncar is a father of six and has been married to his wife, Patti, for over 35 years. He is a Mormon and active in his church. Koncar is a philanthropist and has helped numerous charities over the years.
Koncar was drafted by the Houston Oilers in the fourth round of the 1982 NFL Draft. Koncar was a key player on the Oilers' offensive line in the early 1980s.
He was a two-time All-Pro and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2003. Koncar also played for the Green Bay Packers and was a part of the team's Super Bowl victory in 1981.
After retiring from football, Koncar became a television announcer. He is a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame and the Oilers' Ring of Honor. Koncar is the father of former NFL player Brian Koncar. Koncar is a resident of Houston, Texas. Koncar is a cancer survivor.
44. Christian Fauria
Career
- High school: Crespi Carmelite, (Encino, California)
- College: Colorado
- NFL Draft: 1995 / Round: 2 / Pick: 39
- Seattle Seahawks (1995–2001), New England Patriots (2002–2005), Washington Redskins (2006), Carolina Panthers (2007)
- 2× Super Bowl Champion (XXXVIII, XXXIX)
- Receptions: 252, Receiving yards: 2,529, Receiving touchdowns: 22
- Receptions: 252
- Receiving yards: 2,529
- Receiving touchdowns: 22
Christian Fauria was a tight end for the Seattle Seahawks from 1995 to 2001. Fauria was a productive player for the Seahawks, recording over 1,000 yards and 10 touchdowns in his career.
Fauria was a part of the team that reached the Super Bowl in 2001, where they lost to the New York Giants. Fauria retired from the NFL in 2001 and now works as a football analyst for Fox Sports.
Fauria is a two-time Pro Bowler and was inducted into the Seahawks' Ring of Honor in 2013. Christian Fauria is a father of two and is married to his wife, Stacy. Christian Fauria is a devout Christian and is involved in ministry work.
Christian Fauria is a highly respected player and analyst in the NFL and is widely considered to be one of the best tight ends of all time. Christian Fauria was a prolific receiver in the NFL for a number of years, playing for the New England Patriots, Washington Redskins, and Carolina Panthers.
Fauria was a two-time Super Bowl champion, and he was a standout player on both offense and defense. His 252 receptions, 2,529 receiving yards, and 22 receiving touchdowns are all career highs. Fauria is currently a free agent, and he may elect to retire after the 2018 season.
45. Andre Gurode
Career
- High school: North Shore (Houston, Texas)
- College: Colorado
- NFL Draft: 2002 / Round: 2 / Pick: 37
- Second-team All-Pro (2009), 5× Pro Bowl (2006–2010), Consensus All-American (2001), 2× First-team All-Big 12 (2000, 2001)
- Games played: 161, Games started: 131
- Games played: 161
- Games started: 131
Andre Gurode is an offensive line coach with the Houston Roughnecks in the Arena Football League. Gurode played football at North Shore High School in Houston, Texas, and played for the Colorado Buffaloes in college.
Gurode was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in the 2002 NFL Draft, and played for the team from 2002 to 2010. Gurode joined the Baltimore Ravens as an offensive line coach in 2011, and he was with the team until he was fired in December of that year.
Gurode joined the Chicago Bears as an offensive line coach in 2012, and he is currently with the team. Andre Gurode is a former NFL offensive lineman who played for the Oakland Raiders from 2013-present. Gurode was drafted by the Raiders in the sixth round of the 2013 NFL Draft.
He played college football at the University of Houston. Gurode was named Second-team All-Pro in 2009 and played in five Pro Bowls.
Gurode is a consensus All-American and was twice named First-team All-Big 12. Gurode was released by the Raiders in February of 2019. He is now a coach with the Houston Roughnecks.
46. Tyler Brayton
Career
- High school: Pasco (WA)
- College: Colorado
- NFL Draft: 2003 / Round: 1 / Pick: 32
- Oakland Raiders (2003–2007), Carolina Panthers (2008–2010), Indianapolis Colts (2011)
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (2003), Second-team All-Big 12 (2002)
- Tackles: 309, Sacks: 17.5, Forced fumbles: 5
- Tackles: 309
- Sacks: 17.5
- Forced fumbles: 5
Tyler Brayton played defensive end for the Raiders from 2003-2006 and had a successful career. He was born in Washington and attended Pasco High School.
He played college football at Colorado and was drafted by the Raiders in the 2003 NFL Draft. He had a successful career with the Raiders and was a part of the team that made it to the playoffs in 2006.
He is now a commentator for the NFL on CBS and ESPN and is a popular figure in the league. He has two children and lives in California. He is a popular figure in the NFL and is known for his humorous comments on the air.
He is a popular commentator for the NFL on CBS and ESPN and is known for his humorous comments on the air. Tyler Brayton is a successful defensive end and commentator in the NFL. Tyler Brayton is a former NFL quarterback who played for the Oakland Raiders, Carolina Panthers, and Indianapolis Colts.
Brayton was undrafted in the 2003 NFL Draft and signed with the Raiders as an undrafted free agent. He made his NFL debut in 2003 and played in six games that season.
Brayton started 10 games in 2004 and led the Raiders to a 7-9 record. He was traded to the Carolina Panthers in 2005 and played in 14 games that season.
Brayton was traded to the Indianapolis Colts in 2006 and played in 10 games that season. Brayton was released by the Colts in 2007. He signed with the Panthers in 2008 and played in eight games that season. Brayton was released by the Panthers in 2010.
47. Tony Berti
Career
- High school: Thornton (CO) Skyview
- College: Colorado
- NFL Draft: 1995 / Round: 6 / Pick: 200
- San Diego Chargers (1995–1998), Seattle Seahawks (1998), Denver Broncos (1999), Berlin Thunder (2000), Las Vegas Outlaws (2001)
- Games played: 33, Games started: 30, Fumble recoveries: 1
- Games played: 33
- Games started: 30
- Fumble recoveries: 1
Tony Berti was a 6'6", 300-pound guard/tackle who played for the Colorado Buffaloes and the Detroit Lions of the NFL. He was drafted in the sixth round of the 1995 NFL draft by the Detroit Lions and played there until 2001.
He then moved to the Oakland Raiders, where he played for two seasons before retiring. Tony Berti was a member of the Colorado Buffaloes' 1994 and 1995 national championship teams. He is a three-time All-American and was a first-team All-American in 1995.
He was inducted into the Colorado Buffaloes' Hall of Fame in 2009. Tony Berti is currently a color commentator for the Denver Broncos' preseason games. In June of 2012, Tony Berti underwent surgery to remove a cancerous tumor from his chest. He is married and has two children.
Tony Berti was drafted by the Chargers in 1995, and played for them until 1998. In 1998, he was traded to the Seahawks. In 1999, he was traded to the Broncos. In 2000, he was traded to the Berlin Thunder. In 2001, he was traded to the Las Vegas Outlaws. He won a Super Bowl with the Broncos in 1998.
He has also played for the Chargers, Seahawks, and Broncos in the post-season. He has also played for the Italy national team. He is currently a free agent.
48. Frank Bernardi
Career
- High school: Chicago (IL) Austin Community Academy
- College: Colorado
- NFL Draft: 1955 / Round: 4 / Pick: 38
- Chicago Cardinals (1955–1957), Denver Broncos (1960)
- Games played: 41, Interceptions: 4, Fumble recoveries: 2
- Games played: 41
- Interceptions: 4
- Fumble recoveries: 2
Frank Bernardi was a standout defensive back at Chicago (IL) Austin Community Academy and played college football at Colorado. He was drafted by the Detroit Lions in the fourth round of the 1955 NFL Draft and spent ten seasons with the team.
In 1969, he was traded to the Philadelphia Eagles and played two seasons with them. He retired from the NFL in 1971 and later played for the New York Jets and Kansas City Chiefs. Frank Bernardi is still alive and living in Highwood, Illinois.
He is a member of the College Football Hall of Fame and the Detroit Lions Hall of Fame. Frank Bernardi was inducted into the Illinois High School Football Hall of Fame in 1987.
He was also an All-American at Colorado. Frank Bernardi is a remarkable defensive back and was a key part of the Detroit Lions teams that won two NFL Championships in the 1950s.
Final Words
The Colorado Buffaloes football program is one of the most storied in college football history. Former players such as John Elway, Floyd Little, and Shannon Sharpe have all had success in the NFL.
With players like these in the past, it is no surprise that the Buffaloes have produced some of the best players in college football history. Here are the ten best players to ever play for the Buffaloes:.
. 1. John Elway. The greatest quarterback in CU history, Elway led the Buffaloes to back-to-back national championships in 1990 and 1991. He was also a three-time All-American and won three Super Bowls with the Denver Broncos.
2. Floyd Little. One of the most dynamic players in CU history, Little led the Buffaloes to two national championships in 1970 and 1978. He was also a two-time All-American and won the Heisman Trophy in 1970. 3. Shannon Sharpe.
Sharpe is one of the greatest receivers in CU history. He was a three-time All-American and led the Buffaloes to two national championships in 1998 and 1999. He also won a Super Bowl with the Green Bay Packers in 1998. 4. Rod Smith.
Smith was one of the most consistent players in CU history. He was a two-time All-American and led the Buffaloes to back-to-back national championships in 1997 and 1998. He also won a Super Bowl with the Dallas Cowboys in 1996. 5. Tom Brady.
Brady is the most successful quarterback in CU history. He was a two-time All-American and won the Heisman Trophy in 2001. He also led the New England Patriots to three Super Bowl titles in 2002, 2004, and 2007. 6. Brian Griese. Griese was one of the most successful quarterbacks in CU history.
He was a two-time All-American and led the Buffaloes to back-to-back national championships in 1998 and 1999. He also won a Super Bowl with the Miami Dolphins in 2006. 7. Champ Bailey. Bailey was one of the most dominant cornerback in CU history. He was a two-time All-American and won the Heisman Trophy in 2002.
He also led the Denver Broncos to two Super Bowl titles in 1998 and 2000. 8. Tony Dorsett. Dorsett was one of the
