After a very active transfer portal period , the Colorado Buffaloes are hoping to have a much-improved roster and potentially be in a spot to compete at the top of the Big 12.

With the new look roster, including transfers and returning players, here are five Colorado players who could break out during the 2026 season .

Nov 22, 2025; Boulder, Colorado, USA; Colorado Buffaloes quarterback Julian Lewis (10) scrambles in the first quarter against the Arizona State Sun Devils at Folsom Field. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images | Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

Quarterback Julian Lewis

Heading into the 2026 season, redshirt freshman quarterback Julian Lewis is projected to be the starter for Colorado. Last season in 2025, Lewis gained valuable experience while appearing in four games and starting in two.…