Colorado State is making waves in the college football world by bringing in former Pittsburgh Steelers general manager Kevin Colbert as a consultant. This strategic move is aimed at revolutionizing the Rams’ approach to building a football program, reflecting a growing trend in college athletics towards a more professional model. Colbert, who held the GM position from 2010 to 2022, is set to collaborate with the coaching staff and player personnel department to establish systems that mirror successful NFL operations.
New faces at Colorado State
But Colbert isn’t the only new addition to the Colorado State football program. Earlier this month, the Rams also welcomed Tyson Summers back to the team as their new defensive coordinator. Summers previously held the same position in 2015 and is expected to bring a wealth of experience and fresh ideas to the coaching staff.
Head coach Jay Norvell expressed his enthusiasm about Summers’ return, stating, “When I talked to Tyson, I felt really comfortable about the things he was talking about schematically.” Norvell emphasized the importance of disrupting opponents, both with skilled players and innovative schemes. “Tyson has a lot of experience as a coordinator at several schools, he’s been a head coach … He’s been in a leadership role,” he added, highlighting Summers’ capability to adapt and solve problems on the field.
Innovative strategies for college athletics
The hiring of Kevin Colbert is part of a broader vision by Colorado State athletic director John Weber and assistant AD Scott Sidwell. They are pursuing an innovative approach to college athletics, aiming to align more closely with NFL practices. “CSU officials view the sport becoming more like the NFL, and this as a way to more effectively spend money,” Thamel reported. This shift reflects a growing recognition that college football is evolving, and programs need to adapt to stay competitive.
Colbert’s extensive background in professional football will be invaluable as he works alongside Norvell and the player personnel department. His role will involve setting up frameworks for player transactions, acquisitions, and overall program management. This partnership with Altius Sports Partners, which includes veteran administrator Oliver Luck, signals a commitment to elevating the Rams’ football operations.
Colbert’s impressive track record
Kevin Colbert’s experience is nothing short of remarkable. He began his career with the Steelers in 2000 as their director of football operations, where he played a pivotal role in assembling teams that won two Super Bowls. In 2010, he was promoted to general manager, overseeing player transactions and acquisitions while also serving as the Steelers’ vice president from 2016 until his departure in 2022. This wealth of experience in a high-pressure environment will undoubtedly benefit Colorado State as they look to enhance their program.
Adapting to the changing landscape of college football
While Colbert may not have direct experience at the collegiate level, his understanding of professional football dynamics is crucial as college athletics continues to evolve. With the rise of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals and the gradual erosion of amateurism, many coaches believe college football is transitioning to a more professional model. By bringing in Colbert, Colorado State is positioning itself ahead of the curve, ready to navigate this new landscape effectively.
Colbert’s unique perspective will be instrumental in helping the Rams maximize their resources and develop a competitive edge. As college football becomes increasingly similar to the NFL, having someone with Colbert’s expertise on board could be a game-changer for Colorado State.
Looking ahead: Colorado State’s recent performance
As Colorado State embarks on this new journey, it’s worth noting the progress the program has made under Norvell’s leadership. The Rams finished the 2024 campaign with an impressive 8-5 overall record and a solid 6-1 mark in conference play. This marked Norvell’s third season at the helm and was the team’s best performance during his tenure. With the addition of Colbert and Summers, the future looks promising for Colorado State football.
As the Rams gear up for the upcoming season, fans can expect an exciting blend of innovation and experience. With Colbert’s guidance and Summers’ strategic acumen, Colorado State is poised to make significant strides in the competitive landscape of college football. Will this new direction lead to a breakthrough season? Only time will tell, but the enthusiasm surrounding the program is palpable.
In a rapidly changing environment, Colorado State is taking bold steps to ensure its football program not only competes but thrives. With a commitment to innovation and a focus on professional practices, the Rams are ready to embrace the future of college athletics. The excitement is building, and the stage is set for what could be a transformative era in Colorado State football.
