Another important Buff is hitting the portal
A key piece of Colorado’s offense is moving on, as junior running back Dallan Hayden announced his plan to enter the transfer portal when it opens on January 2, joining a growing list of Buffs looking for new homes ahead of spring ball.
Hayden’s Colorado stint never quite matched the hefty expectations that came with his arrival from Ohio State prior to the 2024 season. Over two years in Boulder, he totaled 522 rushing yards, flashes of burst and a handful of timely runs, but the breakout never materialized.
Context matters here. Hayden battled a high ankle sprain in 2024, which hindered his ability in his first season with Colorado. Additionally, the Buffs’ run game fought uphill most weeks, with inconsistent blocking, a revolving door on the offensive line and game scripts that tilted toward the pass. Hayden was often asked to create in crowded boxes and the unit rarely found sustained rhythm.
Hayden’s departure leaves a real hole. Colorado now needs a reliable early down back who can protect, catch and finish in the red zone. Under offensive coordinator Brennan Marion, that spot becomes a major priority for the portal and for player development this spring.
We will keep tracking portal moves and how the backfield reshapes in the coming weeks and months here at Ralphie Report.
Category: General Sports
