Travis Hunter headlines Athlon's Pac-12 2023 All-Conference team

One of the few players from last year's roster to impress the new staff, even with all of the transfers that the Buffs have brought in at safety he is viewed as a lock to start. Woods has the chance to emerge as a leader for the Buffs in 2023, and is looking to build off his 2022 season that saw him record nearly 80 total tackles, one interception, and three pass deflections.

One of the five Florida State Seminoles to make the jump from Tallahassee to Boulder, McLendon II may be the most proven and the one that has the biggest impact. He recorded 3.5 sacks (7 total) in his past two seasons, and is well aware of what it takes to be a Power 5 starter. 

A former five-star that never lived up to his ranking at Washington, Sav'ell Smalls has a chance for a fresh start, and a chance to finally have a consistent role within the rotation. If the staff is able to tap into his potential that had him ranked as one of the best recruits in the country, the sky could be the limit. 

The first Buff to earn his number under the new staff, Jimmy Horn Jr. has already solidified himself as a fan favorite, and more importantly a favorite target of Shedeur Sanders. The two appeared to have developed quite the connection during spring ball, and he is someone who Sean Lewis can use in a multitude of ways thanks to his speed and agility. 

While people often overlook the importance of a good punter, they can be the difference between an opponent scoring or not. Louisville transfer Mark Vassett offers a ton of experience, and can help flip the field if the Buffs offense struggles. This past season he averaged 44.6 yards per punt with two punts downed inside the 20. 

Maybe the most important transfer get of the spring period, the Houston running back was a star back in 2021. He missed this past season due to injury, but when he was healthy he performed well enough to rush for 961 yards (5.1 average) and 16 touchdowns in 14 games. He also added 21 receptions for 113 yards (5.4 average) and two scores. He headlines a Colorado running back room that could be the deepest in the conference now that he is a Buff. 

Colorado's most important transfer addition, the two-way star is expected to be one of the best corners in the country who also doubles as a great pass catcher. Landing Hunter again was something most expected of Deion Sanders, but the former No. 1 overall recruit had many suitors in the portal. The Buffs will rely on him immensely in 2023, and now that he plays at the Power 5 level he will truly have the spotlight on him.