Colorado Buffaloes
· 2026-07-10
Colorado Buffaloes' former wide receiver Naeten Mitchell didn't hold back on Monday, saying the program's mental approach needs a reset before the team heads to its next test against Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets on 2026-09-04. Mitchell, who entered the transfer portal after the 2025 season, warned that complacency could derail the Buffs' push for a Big 12 bowl berth.
Mitchell told reporters that the Buffaloes have "lost the edge" in practice and games, noting a drop in intensity after the opening win over Colorado State. He pointed to missed assignments on special teams and a lack of accountability among younger players. "We need to bring that fire back," he said, adding that the coaching staff must enforce higher standards.
Having logged 45 receptions for 612 yards and three touchdowns in his two seasons with Colorado, Mitchell knows the program's culture inside out. His comments carry weight because he experienced the transition from a high‑school star in Denver to a Division I athlete under head coach Deion Sanders. Former teammates have praised his work ethic, so his critique signals a deeper concern about locker‑room cohesion.
Coach Sanders, known for his bold statements, has not publicly addressed Mitchell's remarks yet. However, insiders suggest the staff will emphasize competition in the upcoming spring drills, possibly reshuffling the depth chart at receiver. Defensive coordinator Alex Grinch could also tighten film sessions, aiming to restore the "never‑quit" attitude that defined the 2023 season.
The Buffaloes travel to Atlanta to meet Georgia Tech on Sept. 4, 2026, a game that could set the tone for conference play. If the team embraces Mitchell's call for heightened focus, they could improve their early‑season ranking and secure a stronger position for the Big 12 championship race. Conversely, ignoring the warning might lead to another stumble, echoing the mid‑season loss to Oklahoma State last year.
Mitchell is slated to join the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) Miners, where he hopes to showcase his speed and route‑running for NFL scouts. He will sit out the first half of the 2026 season due to transfer rules, but expects to be eligible by the fifth week. His departure leaves a gap in Colorado's receiving corps, prompting the Buffs to lean on sophomore Jordan Ross and freshman Malik Johnson.
Buffaloes supporters are split. Some appreciate Mitchell's honesty, believing that external voices can spark internal change. Others worry that public criticism could distract the team during a crucial rebuilding phase. Social media buzz shows a mix of #BuffaloesMentality memes and calls for stricter discipline from the coaching staff.
The Buffaloes' next move will be watched closely, especially as the clock ticks toward the Georgia Tech showdown. If the program can translate Mitchell's warning into on‑field energy, Boulder might see a resurgence that propels them deep into the postseason.