In 2023, the inside linebacker position kept changing for the Colorado Buffaloes.
LaVonta Bentley was consistent, starting eight times, including the last seven games. However, six other players also started as the Buffs struggled to find the best combination for the middle of the defense.
As the Buffaloes started the second week of spring practices, they continued their quest to find the right combination.
Bentley and Trevor Woods, who used to play safety, are the main players, but head coach Deion Sanders and his staff are also watching the transfer portal for potential additions.
Sanders mentioned wanting more depth at the linebacker position but acknowledged the current players' efforts. He also indicated that they are aware of the upcoming situation they need to address.
Linebackers coach Andre Hart stated that Bentley and Woods are the top contenders to start, while Jaylen Wester, a transfer from Florida Atlantic, is also competing. Additionally, senior Brendan Gant and redshirt freshmen Victory Johnson and Kofi Taylor-Barrocks are in the mix.
Hart noted that it was the first day in pads on Tuesday, so he couldn't fully evaluate the players' performance in both running and passing situations.
Last season, Bentley led the team with 69 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, and five sacks. He aims to achieve more in his final college football season after his first year as a starter.
Bentley expressed his confidence and determination to improve every day, aiming for the NFL while cherishing the opportunity to play with his teammates.
Woods has primarily played as a safety in college but had to switch to linebacker midway through the 2023 season due to the team's needs. He made four starts in that position, despite it not being his natural role, and was third on the team with 56 tackles, mostly while playing safety.
Woods discussed the learning experience of being thrown into the linebacker role without much preparation, emphasizing the value of those game experiences.
Coaches had conversations with Woods about his role after the season and did not rule out the possibility of him returning to safety. Hart mentioned the importance of ensuring Woods' commitment to the team for the upcoming year.
Hart explained that they spoke with Woods to ensure he understood his role and value to the team, aiming to prevent him from entering the transfer portal. They believe he is a valuable asset who will contribute positively to the linebacker unit.
Wester participated in 22 games at FAU, where he made 113 tackles, 12 tackles for loss, and two sacks. Last year, he made 55 tackles and 7.5 TFL’s.
However, in the future, CU might explore the transfer portal to improve even more.
Hart mentioned, “Coach Prime is always striving to improve, and I appreciate that. He wants to create competition, and I really like that as it keeps everyone on their toes.
Hart explained, “Currently, we're focusing on the players we already have and helping them improve. However, we have some potential targets in mind from the transfer portal, but for now, our focus is on our current roster.
