Colorado’s Transfer Portal Losses Continue as London Merritt Departs.

The Colorado Buffaloes are facing continued roster instability as another highly rated young player has entered the NCAA transfer portal. Four-star edge rusher London Merritt officially announced his departure, adding to a growing list of players leaving head coach Deion Sanders’ program. Merritt becomes one of more than 20 players from last season’s roster expected to move on, highlighting the ongoing challenges Colorado faces in retaining talent. Several members of the 2024 recruiting class have already departed, including offensive lineman Carde Smith, edge rusher Alexander McPherson, and cornerback Noah King. Many of these players appear to be searching for clearer or quicker opportunities for playing time elsewhere. Although Merritt saw limited action during the season, he recorded 14 tackles and one sack and was projected to take on a larger role in the upcoming fall. His decision to leave comes after a disappointing 3–9 campaign for the Buffaloes, a result that may have contributed to growing uncertainty among younger players.

As Colorado continues its transition into the Big 12, the program faces pressure to show consistent competitiveness. Until on-field success improves, holding onto high-potential recruits may remain difficult. For Sanders and his coaching staff, the task extends beyond rebuilding the roster—it also involves convincing players that the program’s long-term direction is worth committing to.