Colorado two-way standout Travis Hunter and Boise State’s Ashton Jeanty, who both made significant impacts in the 2024 college football season, are now preparing for their rookie years in the National Football League. Their departure has created opportunities for new players to take leading roles on their respective teams this coming season.
Hunter, who won a Heisman Trophy during his time at Colorado, is regarded as a unique talent. Jeanty produced one of the most notable college running back seasons since Hall of Famer Barry Sanders’ year at Oklahoma State in 1988.
With Hunter and Jeanty gone, attention shifts to the athletes ready to replace these star performers. Several programs have already identified successors while others are expected to emerge once play resumes in September.
For Colorado, Joseph Williams—who was American Athletic Conference Freshman of the Year at Tulsa last season with 30 catches for 588 yards and five touchdowns—will look to step up at wide receiver. At cornerback, DJ McKinney will move into a more prominent role after recording three interceptions last season.
At Boise State, Malik Sherrod and Sire Gaines will split duties at running back. Sherrod transferred from Fresno State after rushing for 966 yards in 2023 but was limited by injury last season. Gaines also missed part of last season due to injury but displayed potential in limited action.
Penn State aims to fill the gap left by defensive end Abdul Carter with Dani Dennis-Sutton, who tallied 8.5 sacks last year while playing opposite Carter. Miami’s quarterback position will be filled by former Georgia starter Carson Beck following Cam Ward’s exit; Beck brings experience from his successful tenure with the Bulldogs.
The University of Texas turns to Arch Manning as its starting quarterback after Quinn Ewers’ departure. Manning previously stepped in due to injury and finished that campaign with nine touchdown passes and four rushing scores.
Oregon replaces Dillon Gabriel with Dante Moore, an experienced player who began his career at UCLA. Arizona State’s running game will rely on Kyson Brown following Cam Skattebo’s noteworthy performances last year; Army transfer Kayne Udho may also see significant carries.
Liberty transfer Kaidon Salter becomes Colorado’s quarterback after Shedeur Sanders moved on; Salter is recognized for his steady play and low turnover rate.
Other replacements noted include Khalil Dinkins stepping up as Penn State’s tight end after Tyler Warren’s graduation, Ty Simpson taking over as Alabama quarterback from Jalen Milroe under new offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb, and several additional personnel changes across key programs nationwide.
Field Level Media contributed reporting.
