Colorado’s 2026 fall camp picture is still taking shape in a few key spots, but a handful of freshmen are already pushing themselves into the conversation.
Quarterback isn’t one of the questions. Julian Lewis is expected to have full control of the offense, and tight end looks settled as well with Zach Atkins back and projected for a bigger role this fall.
Elsewhere, though, the door is open.
On the offensive line, Gooden has a real shot to be one of the first freshmen to crack the starting lineup. He joined Lewis as a prized four-star member of Colorado’s 2025 class, and the 6-3, 380-pound lineman appears positioned to claim the full-time job at left guard. He already got a taste of the action, playing in the final four games of the 2025 season.
Gooden is not alone in that race. McFadden is also in the mix, and this should be one of the more interesting battles on the roster.
The former four-star recruit for Ryan Day and Ohio State appeared in two games last season, and he comes in with a different build than Gooden. Colorado has added weight to his frame as he pushes toward a starting role.
His fit could matter in a big way in Brennan Marion’s new “Go-Go” offense. That system asks a lot from its linemen, especially on pull blocks, and McFadden’s feet are part of the appeal. Even so, the job will come down to who can consistently create running lanes as Colorado leans into a more physical downhill style.
On the defensive side, Thomas is making noise at cornerback. The redshirt freshman transfer from Notre Dame was also stuck in a crowded position group before moving on, and Sanders letting him take part in the Big 12 Conference Media Days is a strong sign of where he stands. It suggests Thomas is already separating himself in the battle for one of the corner spots left behind by DJ McKinney, who ended up at Thomas’ former school.
Another freshman to watch is Ashley, a four-star safety who arrives with Under Armour All-American credentials. He steps into a deep safety room that includes New Mexico State transfer Naeten Mitchell and senior Ben Finneseth, both of whom are expected to see plenty of snaps.
Ashley could also factor at nickelback, especially with new defensive coordinator Chris Marve using a five-defensive-back base. Colorado is going to see plenty of three- and four-wide receiver sets this season, and the Big 12 will only add more of that pressure with teams like Texas Tech and Arizona State bringing serious passing-game firepower.
That said, Ashley is not alone in the nickelback chase. Sanders also brought in former Tennessee signee Boo Carter, who is looking for a fresh start after a disappointing stretch in Knoxville. Even with Carter in the mix, Ashley still has a path to win the job.
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