The Colorado Buffaloes are set to host the Arizona State Sun Devils for their final home game of the season on March 23, 2024. This significant matchup will take place at Folsom Field in Boulder, where the Buffs will honor their senior players during a heartfelt ceremony. With kickoff scheduled for 18:00 MT, emotions will run high as these athletes prepare to close a pivotal chapter in their careers.
As senior defensive end Arden Walker prepares for the festivities, he reflects on his unique journey in college football. Initially starting his career at Missouri, Walker returned to his roots at Colorado, where his father, Arthur Walker, played from 1986 to 1989. “Honestly, I’m grateful,” he stated, expressing disbelief at how quickly his college years have flown by. Walker’s story mirrors that of many players navigating the complexities of today’s college sports landscape, particularly the influence of the transfer portal.
The emotional weight of senior day is palpable, as Deion Sanders, head coach of the Buffaloes, acknowledges the significance of the occasion. “Emotional,” he described the day, echoing feelings he experienced last year when two of his sons participated in their own senior day celebrations. The Buffs’ roster features 37 seniors, but it remains uncertain how many will walk during the ceremony, highlighting the varied experiences of this year’s graduating class.
Among the seniors, four players—Gavriel Lightfoot, DeKalon Taylor, Tawfiq Thomas, and Terrell Timmons Jr.—have played four games or fewer this season, leaving open the possibility of a redshirt year. In addition, several fourth-year juniors, including cornerback DJ McKinney, have been labeled as seniors by the university, further blurring the lines of eligibility.
Only one player, backup long snapper Camden Dempsey, will exhaust his eligibility after spending his entire career with the Buffs. Dempsey, who joined the team as a walk-on in 2021, exemplifies the dedication seen in many of his fellow seniors. Running back Charlie Offerdahl, who also joined in 2021 and has since medically retired, plans to participate in the senior day festivities as well.
Walker stands out as one of the most experienced players on the team, currently in his third year with the program. “I didn’t feel any pressure, to be honest,” he said regarding his return to CU. His father’s advice inspired him to focus on his own path, emphasizing the importance of making choices that align with personal aspirations.
The Buffaloes’ defense has benefited from Walker’s contributions over the past two seasons. He expressed pride in performing well in front of friends and family, stating, “My parents are proud of me, my family, my god dad. They just want to see me do good, and they’ve been nothing but proud.” This sentiment resonates with many seniors who are eager to leave a lasting impact on their home crowd.
Other notable seniors include linebacker Jeremiah Brown and offensive lineman Tyler Brown, both of whom played under Sanders at Jackson State before transferring to Colorado. Jeremiah described his feelings about senior day as “bittersweet,” adding, “the emotions have been going stronger and stronger” as the day approaches.
The senior class is diverse, encompassing players from various backgrounds and previous institutions. This includes Ivan Yates, a cornerback who joined CU after spending four years at Furman, and defensive lineman Anquin Barnes Jr., who has made a significant impact in his time with the team.
The largest group of seniors consists of 15 players who are experiencing their first year with the Buffs. Among them are quarterback Kaidon Salter and starting center Zarian McGill, who shared his gratitude for the opportunity to play in Colorado. “I feel like I’m taking advantage of it really well,” he said, reflecting on his journey through multiple colleges before arriving at CU.
As the Buffaloes prepare for their final home game, the culmination of these athletes’ experiences will be on display at Folsom Field. Regardless of where their journeys began, they will unite in celebration and reflection as they take the field one last time in front of their home fans. “It’s been nothing but a blessing, for sure,” Walker concluded, capturing the spirit of this senior class as they approach an emotional farewell.
