The landscape of professional football is expanding, and former Colorado State University Rams are among the many alumni taking advantage of new opportunities abroad.
Dequan Jackson, a linebacker who anchored the Rams’ defense from 2018 through 2022, finished his collegiate career with a school‑record 322 tackles, including 100 in his senior season. He now wears the Orlando Storm uniform in the United Football League, where his relentless pursuit of the quarterback has made him a cornerstone of the franchise.
Across the border, Nuer Gatkuoth has turned a rapid rise into a steady presence with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers of the Canadian Football League. After a standout stint at Wake Forest in 2025, the first‑round CFL draft pick has become a regular starter on the defensive line, helping the Bombers maintain a competitive edge in the league’s toughest divisions.
Nick Callender’s journey took a different trajectory. A stalwart on the offensive line from 2012 to 2016, Callender transitioned to the Canadian game after college and quickly became part of a historic Montreal Alouettes squad that captured the 2023 Grey Cup. Having appeared in 71 career games, his consistency has made him a trusted veteran in a league where experience is prized.
In Europe, Nouredin Nouili has found a home with the Munich Ravens of the European Football Alliance. Hailing from Frankfurt, Germany, the 2024 CFL draftee brings a blend of technical skill and cultural adaptability, contributing to the Ravens’ push for dominance in a rapidly growing market.
The ripple effect of CSU’s football program extends beyond these marquee names. Avery Morrow, a running back who amassed 2,102 rushing yards between 2022 and 2024, and Dante Wright, a receiver who logged 1,658 yards and seven touchdowns, have each signed professional contracts that underscore the university’s ability to develop versatile talent.
These stories illustrate a broader shift: a generation of college players is no longer confined to a single pathway. With the United Football League, Canadian Football League and European Football Alliance offering competitive platforms and financial incentives, former Rams are charting individualized routes that blend athletic ambition with professional growth.