Colorado State University quarterback Brayden Fowler-Nicolosi has departed from the football program and plans to enter the transfer portal, according to reports from ESPN. This decision follows the dismissal of head coach Jay Norvell on October 15, 2023. Fowler-Nicolosi had been a significant player for the Rams, starting in 28 games throughout his career.
Over four seasons with Colorado State, Fowler-Nicolosi recorded a total of 6,938 passing yards, ranking sixth among all active Group of 5 quarterbacks. His performance included 45 total touchdowns and 34 turnovers. His decision to leave comes after a series of challenging games, including a benching during a narrow 17-16 loss to UTSA on September 20, 2023.
Career Highlights and Recent Performance
Fowler-Nicolosi began the 2023 season with a modest performance, throwing for 488 yards, one touchdown, and three interceptions in his first three games. In 2022, as a redshirt freshman, he emerged as the second-leading passer in the Mountain West Conference, accumulating 3,542 yards, 22 touchdowns, and 16 interceptions. His achievements earned him an honorable mention for all-conference recognition, and his 2,796 passing yards last season placed him third in the Mountain West.
The quarterback’s departure is expected to draw significant interest, particularly as he is likely to be one of the most experienced quarterbacks available when the transfer portal opens in January 2024. Notably, last year, Norvell indicated that Fowler-Nicolosi had declined a $600,000 offer to transfer to Kansas State after the 2023 season.
Impact on Colorado State Football
With Fowler-Nicolosi’s exit, Jackson Brousseau, a redshirt sophomore, is now at the helm for the Rams. Brousseau has demonstrated his capability this season, with 741 passing yards, seven total touchdowns, and no interceptions. The Rams are currently in a challenging position with a 2-5 record and will face Wyoming on Saturday.
Fowler-Nicolosi’s departure was initially reported by The Coloradoan, marking a significant change for the Rams as they navigate the remainder of the season. As the team looks to regroup under new leadership, the impact of Fowler-Nicolosi’s transfer will be closely monitored by fans and analysts alike.
