Colorado Buffaloes enter the 2026 season with 22 starting positions still to be allocated, a situation that places a premium on evaluating every newcomer who steps onto the practice field. Head coach Deion Sanders and his staff are scrutinizing each freshman’s readiness, weighing scheme fit, and physical preparedness as they map out the first‑string lineup.
The Roster Challenge
Among the candidates, one name repeatedly surfaces: Josiah Manu, a defensive tackle whose blend of size and technique has drawn early praise. The coaching staff must decide whether his talent justifies an immediate insertion into the defensive front.
Manu's High School Journey
Manu arrives from a high‑school program where he logged 55 tackles, nine of which came behind the line of scrimmage, showcasing a knack for disrupting opposing offenses. At 6‑5 and 295 pounds, his frame combines length with power, while his experience on both sides of the line gave him a rare feel for blocking schemes and gap assignments.
Off‑Field Developments
A pending NCAA case involving fellow defensive tackle Ezra Christensen could reshape the depth chart, potentially freeing a scholarship slot that would otherwise be occupied. Such off‑field developments add another variable to the equation as the Buffaloes weigh who can step in without compromising eligibility.
Coaching Priorities
Defensive coordinator Chris Marve has indicated that the ideal starter must possess a quick first step and the ability to control the line of scrimmage, traits that align closely with Manu’s physical profile. The staff also considers veteran options, but the combination of size, experience, and scheme familiarity makes the freshman a compelling candidate.
The early indications suggest that Manu could see action from the outset, especially if the coaching staff determines that his disruptive capabilities outweigh the need for a fully polished veteran. How quickly he adapts to collegiate speed will ultimately dictate the extent of his impact on the Buffaloes’ defensive identity.