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Colorado's running back room is one of the most intriguing parts of the roster heading into 2026, and Richard Young is a name that stands out.
The Alabama transfer arrives in Boulder with the body type, burst and downhill style that should fit Brennan Marion's new Go-Go offense, especially after Colorado struggled to establish a consistent run game in 2025.
Young, a former four-star recruit, brings a 5-foot-11, 215-pound frame and a style built on one-cut runs and physical finishes. That profile matters in Marion's system, which is expected to rely on multiple backs and create stress through motion, spacing and two-back looks. Young has already shown he can operate within a similar structure, which could help him get on the field quickly.
Colorado does not need just one running back to carry the load, but Young has a chance to become the back who changes the tone of the offense. He averaged 5.4 yards per carry at Alabama and flashed enough vision to press the hole, make the jump cut and get north-south in a hurry. In Boulder, that skill set could pair well with Micah Welch, giving the Buffaloes a more complete backfield than they had a year ago.
The Buffaloes also added Damian Henderson and Jaquail Smith, two backs who know Marion's system from Sacramento State. Henderson brings size at 6-foot-2 and 210 pounds, while Smith offers speed and versatility on the edge. That depth should give Colorado more options, but Young still feels like the player with the highest ceiling.
If the transfer clicks early, Colorado may finally unlock a rushing attack that can support the rest of the offense. That would be a major swing for a team looking to improve on last year's 3-9 season and take a real step forward.
Follow James Carnes on X, Facebook and Instagram.
Contact/Follow us @BuffaloesWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook for ongoing coverage of Colorado news, notes and opinions.
This article originally appeared on Buffaloes Wire: Colorado football's Richard Young a key to improved running game
Continue reading...
The Alabama transfer arrives in Boulder with the body type, burst and downhill style that should fit Brennan Marion's new Go-Go offense, especially after Colorado struggled to establish a consistent run game in 2025.
Young, a former four-star recruit, brings a 5-foot-11, 215-pound frame and a style built on one-cut runs and physical finishes. That profile matters in Marion's system, which is expected to rely on multiple backs and create stress through motion, spacing and two-back looks. Young has already shown he can operate within a similar structure, which could help him get on the field quickly.
Why Young fits Colorado
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Colorado does not need just one running back to carry the load, but Young has a chance to become the back who changes the tone of the offense. He averaged 5.4 yards per carry at Alabama and flashed enough vision to press the hole, make the jump cut and get north-south in a hurry. In Boulder, that skill set could pair well with Micah Welch, giving the Buffaloes a more complete backfield than they had a year ago.
The supporting cast
The Buffaloes also added Damian Henderson and Jaquail Smith, two backs who know Marion's system from Sacramento State. Henderson brings size at 6-foot-2 and 210 pounds, while Smith offers speed and versatility on the edge. That depth should give Colorado more options, but Young still feels like the player with the highest ceiling.
If the transfer clicks early, Colorado may finally unlock a rushing attack that can support the rest of the offense. That would be a major swing for a team looking to improve on last year's 3-9 season and take a real step forward.
Follow James Carnes on X, Facebook and Instagram.
Contact/Follow us @BuffaloesWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook for ongoing coverage of Colorado news, notes and opinions.
This article originally appeared on Buffaloes Wire: Colorado football's Richard Young a key to improved running game
Continue reading...
