One of the greatest running backs in NFL history is heading to Boulder. Marshall Faulk is joining Deion Sanders’ staff at Colorado as running backs coach, the program announced Thursday night. This exciting news has fans buzzing with anticipation as they look forward to seeing how Faulk’s expertise will influence the Buffaloes’ rushing game.
Faulk’s Stellar Career in College Football
Before he became an NFL legend, Faulk rose to stardom at San Diego State, where he put together a College Football Hall of Fame career with the Aztecs. A three-time First Team All-WAC selection and two-time unanimous All-American, he was in the top three of the Heisman Trophy voting all three seasons. In fact, he was the runner-up to Gino Torretta during his junior year, showcasing his immense talent on the college stage.
A Hall of Fame Legacy
Faulk will be the third Pro Football Hall of Famer roaming the sidelines at CU, joining Coach Prime and Warren Sapp. He was enshrined in the Hall of Fame in 2011 – his first year on the ballot – after a decorated career with the Indianapolis Colts and St. Louis Rams. His journey from a college superstar to an NFL icon is a testament to his hard work and dedication.
Transitioning to Coaching
While Faulk has never coached at the collegiate level, Colorado will be his first opportunity to make a significant impact on young athletes. He previously worked as an analyst at NFL Network alongside Sanders following his retirement in 2005, but now he’ll be stepping into a role that allows him to directly shape the next generation of running backs.
Impressive NFL Career
The Colts selected Faulk No. 2 overall in the 1994 NFL Draft, and he won the NFL’s Offensive Rookie of the Year award that same year. He ran for 1,282 yards and 11 touchdowns, leading the Indianapolis backfield and setting the stage for a remarkable career. Faulk played for the Colts until 1999 when he was traded to the Rams, where he truly became a household name.
Achievements and Accolades
During his time with the Rams, Faulk was part of the Super Bowl XXXIV team, famously known as “The Greatest Show on Turf.” He earned three First Team All-Pro selections in St. Louis and was awarded the 2000 NFL MVP award, solidifying his status as one of the league’s elite players. All told, throughout his illustrious career, Faulk was a three-time NFL Offensive Player of the Year and a seven-time Pro Bowler, leading the league in rushing yards in 2000 and scoring twice. His induction into the St. Louis Ring of Fame and the Colts Ring of Honor further cements his legacy as one of the all-time greats.
Building a Star-Studded Coaching Staff
With Marshall Faulk’s addition, Deion Sanders now has even more star power on his coaching staff. Coach Prime has emphasized the importance of bringing in NFL coaches to the sidelines at Colorado. Faulk joins Warren Sapp as assistants with gold jackets in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, creating a coaching environment rich in experience and expertise that will undoubtedly benefit the players.
Colorado’s Recent Success
Colorado is coming off an impressive turnaround season in 2024. The Buffaloes went from a disappointing 4-8 in Sanders’ first season at the helm to a remarkable 9-4 record and a bowl game appearance this past year. This transformation was led by Heisman Trophy winner Travis Hunter and quarterback Shedeur Sanders, two of the top prospects in this year’s draft. Their success has set high expectations for the upcoming season, and the addition of Faulk may just be the catalyst needed to elevate the team even further.
Looking Ahead
As Faulk steps into his new role, fans and players alike are eager to see how his wealth of knowledge will translate into on-field success. Will he be able to harness the raw talent of Colorado’s running backs and mold them into stars? The excitement surrounding his appointment is palpable, and it’s clear that the Buffaloes are aiming for greatness. With a coaching staff filled with Hall of Famers and a roster brimming with potential, the future looks bright for Colorado football.
In the world of college football, change is constant, but one thing remains true: the passion for the game and the desire to win. With Marshall Faulk now part of the Colorado coaching staff, fans can expect an electrifying season ahead. The stage is set, and the countdown to kickoff has officially begun!
