A four-star recruit, Hayden (5-11, 215 pounds) was considered the 24th-best running back by college recruiting analysts in 2022.  He played two seasons with the Buckeyes, rushing 130 times for 663 yards and six touchdowns.  Two players to join him with Colorado are defensive tackle Rayyan Buell and offensive tackle Payton Kirkland.

BREAKING: Ohio State RB transfer Dallan Hayden has committed to Colorado, he tells @SWiltfong_https://t.co/BShIARmmlP pic.twitter.com/8GDCfyEc0Y

— On3 (@On3sports) April 22, 2024

Deion Sanders and his team have seen several prominent players hit the NCAA transfer portal this spring.  Josh Newberg said, “Colorado is going to Binge and Purge.”   He may have a point, as Coach Prime’s recruiting efforts aren’t to be in vain, landing three recruiting commitments from this weekend.

Upon departing the program, Cormani McClain had the Buffaloes in his crosshairs, saying he was to “be a part of a real and great program.  I don’t wanna play for clicks.” On3 also reports that McClain has “USF, UCF, and Memphis” interested in his talent.  One recruiting tactic to land McCain is to offer him a role similar to Travis Hunter – playing offense and defense.   

Another transfer for the Buffs is defensive end J.J. Hawkins, who also decided to go portal surfing.

Colorado defensive lineman J.J. Hawkins has entered the transfer portal, @On3sports has learned.

The former Ole Miss transfer played in 10 games in 2023, starting in one against Oregon State. https://t.co/VNvB2Ek6qR pic.twitter.com/K7vgzytdhQ

— Pete Nakos (@PeteNakos_) April 22, 2024

Colorado’s starting quarterback, Shedeur Sanders, posted on social media, “If you’re not a player here, that means you’re not good enough.”  Some have considered it a challenge and other kids must be convinced it’s worth playing for the Pro Football Hall of Famer in Boulder. 

Nonetheless, the thirst for drama and suspense in playing for Deion Sanders will only be quenched once the Buffaloes contend for the national championship.