Colorado football closes out spring camp Saturday afternoon with its annual spring football game. It is nothing more than a glorified practice, but with 40-plus new faces in Boulder, it is a chance for fans to see the new Buffs in action.
For the players, it offers a chance to put everything they learned in the spring together. Some need the stage to prove they can be a significant part of the 2026 team. While the scrimmage does not mean much in the grand scheme of things, it does change narratives and fan perception.
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Our staff at Buffaloes Wire has compiled a list of three players who need a standout performance at the spring game to quiet the outside noise.
QB Julian Lewis
Apr 19, 2025; Boulder, CO, USA; Colorado Buffaloes quarterback Julian Lewis (10) during the spring game at Folsom Field. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images
Selected by: Xavier Michnewicz
While it is just the spring game, Lewis will need to look sharp in Marion’s Go-Go. Although the spring game isn’t an end-all, be-all, if Lewis balls out in Marion’s offense, it will surely raise expectations for the offense and for the season overall. If the opposite happens, all eyes will turn to how Isaac Wilson performs.
CB Makari Vickers
Sep 12, 2025; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Cougars wide receiver Stephon Johnson (5) makes a reception as Colorado Buffaloes cornerback Makari Vickers (10) defends during the fourth quarter at TDECU Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images
Selected by: Jack Freeman
Over 40 transfers were brought in, including several cornerbacks, which leaves guys like Makari Vickers, a returner, in a tough spot. Vickers showed as much promise as he did struggles last season, and will have a more difficult time finding the field against more experienced guys. A big game for Vickers would look like shutting down the Buffs’ best in man coverage and allowing the revamped defensive line to get after the quarterback. A strong start from Vickers would solidify Colorado’s secondary, guaranteeing quality depth and improving the team’s ability to guard the increasing number of star wideouts in the Big 12.
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CB RJ Johnson
Oct 19, 2024; Tucson, Arizona, USA; Colorado Buffalos safety RJ Johnson (5) and Savion Riley (9) against the Arizona Wildcats at Arizona Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Selected by: Charlie Strella
Johnson was in and out of the lineup last season due to injuries, but with DJ McKinney moving on to Notre Dame, both starting cornerback positions are open. Transfer Cree Thomas seems to have the lead with the top spot, according to Deion Sanders. Johnson’s ability to take over that other starting spot is a major factor in determining how good Colorado’s secondary can be.
Honorable mentions: WR Quentin Gibson, RB Richard Young, DE Quency Wiggins
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This article originally appeared on Buffaloes Wire: Colorado football spring game players who must step up
