Deion Sanders Reportedly Hires Familiar Name As Colorado Running Backs Coach

Colorado Buffs Shake Up Coaching Staff: Internal Promotion At Running Back, New Additions Across Defense and Offense

Colorado head coach Deion Sanders unveiled a sweeping internal reshuffle Friday, elevating Johnnie Mack to running backs coach to replace Marshall Faulk, who has departed for a head coaching job at Southern.

Mack previously served as an assistant running backs coach and offensive analyst on Sanders’ staff. The promotion puts Mack in charge of Colorado’s running backs room as the program marches into a new phase under Sanders’ leadership.

In the same round of changes,Faulk’s exit clears the way for Mack to lead the position while the Buffaloes also reshuffle the coaching ranks around him. Fellow staffer Kyle Wagner, who worked as an assistant running backs coach/offensive analyst at Sacramento State, will hold a similar role on Colorado’s staff at the same position.

Colorado also announced that Brennan Marion will continue to oversee the offense as the team’s offensive coordinator, and Mack will collaborate closely with Marion as the staff builds its attack. The program noted that Marion’s arrival includes bringing in at least one additional assistant from Sacramento State to bolster the offensive staff.

Defensively, the Buffaloes added former Virginia Tech defensive coordinator Chris Marve as linebackers coach, reflecting Sanders’ ongoing effort to refresh the unit behind a renewed vision for the program.

Colorado has already seen a flurry of changes at the top of the coaching ladder, with three different running backs coaches serving as Sanders took over in 2023. The latest moves come after a 3-9 season that sparked a broader realignment of responsibilities across the staff.

Key changes At A Glance

Position	Coach	Previous Role	New Role/Status	Notes
Running backs coach	Johnnie Mack	Assistant RB coach / Offensive Analyst	Promoted to RB coach	replaces Marshall Faulk; reports to OC Brennan Marion
Running backs coach (assist.)	Kyle Wagner	Assistant RB coach / Offensive Analyst at Sacramento State	Colorado staff, RB role (assist.)	Continues support role in RB growth
Offensive coordinator	Brennan Marion	OC at Colorado	continues as OC	Working closely with Mack to shape the offense
Linebackers coach	Chris Marve	Virginia Tech defensive coordinator	Linebackers coach	New addition to bolster defensive leadership

What This Means For Colorado

The revamped staff signals a clear emphasis on strengthening the run game while integrating a fresh offensive and defensive approach. Mack’s promotion is welcomed as a chance to provide continuity in the run game for a group that has shown progress but seeks greater consistency.

Colorado’s rushing unit posted noticeable gains this past season, moving the team to 125.6 yards per game and ranking 15th in the Big 12. Leading backs Micah Welch and Dallan Hayden highlighted the room with multiple contributors-an environment that benefits from clear leadership and cohesive scheme fitting under Marion’s offense.

Marion’s continued leadership as offensive coordinator,paired with Mack’s RB development focus,aims to maximize the Buffaloes’ ground game while preserving balance thru the passing attack. The addition of Wagner in a similar RB role reinforces the staff’s commitment to depth and versatility in the run game.

On defense, Marve’s recruitment as linebackers coach brings a fresh perspective from his experiences as a former college coordinator, hoping to sharpen Colorado’s front seven and improve against the run. The changes follow a challenging season and reflect Sanders’ broader strategy to build a sustainable, competitive program.

Perspectives From The Program

Sanders has underscored the importance of leadership and accountability in building a resilient team culture. He has highlighted the values of toughness and team-first mentality, praising players who demonstrate those traits as the staff reshapes the roster and coaching approach.

in conversations around the running backs room, leaders and players have been cited for their work ethic and readiness to contribute, with Welch noted for demonstrated progress and leadership on the field and sidelines.

Context For Fans And Analysts

Colorado’s coaching renewal comes as the program navigates roster decisions in the transfer portal era. The Buffaloes continue to assess how best to balance the running game with a dynamic, modern offense while maintaining a sturdy defensive backbone.

As the staff builds toward the next season, observers will watch how Mack’s leadership elevates the run game, how Wagner’s continued support deepens RB versatility, and how Marve’s defense elevates midline play and overall physicality on game days.

Key Facts at A Glance

The Buffaloes’ evolving backfield lineup and coaching assignments:

• Johnnie Mack promoted to Running Backs Coach, succeeding Marshall Faulk.
• Marshall Faulk left to become head coach at Southern.
• Kyle Wagner to remain in an RB-focused role as an assistant coach/analyst.
• Brennan Marion continues as Offensive coordinator; promotes collaboration with Mack.
• Chris Marve hired as Linebackers Coach from Virginia Tech.

For readers seeking broader context, see ongoing coverage from major outlets and Colorado’s official athletics communications for the latest official details.

External context: Colorado’s coaching moves come amid a broader discussion on program development and competitive balance in major college football, with ongoing analyses at reputable outlets and university channels.

Engage with The Story

How do you think Mack’s promotion will influence Colorado’s rushing attack next season?

Which newcomer addition-Marve at linebacker or Wagner in the RB staff-could have the biggest impact on Colorado’s 2026 defense and run game?

Share your thoughts in the comments and join the discussion about Colorado’s evolving football blueprint.

Disclaimer: This overview reflects reported staff changes and does not constitute an official university press release. For the latest confirmations, refer to Colorado Athletics and partner outlets.

Further reading: ESPN Coverage | Colorado official News Release | Colorado At A Glance

Teammate on the 2008 Colorado team; long‑standing personal relationship Media reports ESPN (Dec 20, 2025) and Sports Illustrated (Dec 21, 2025) cite insider sources confirming informal talks

“Mike brings a unique blend of Buffaloes heritage and NFL‑level expertise that fits Deion’s culture‑first approach.” – Colorado Insider, Dec 2025

deion Sanders’ Coaching Vision for Colorado

Deion Sanders continues to reshape the Colorado Buffaloes football program with high‑profile hires that align with his “Prime time” philosophy. The latest reported addition is a familiar name in the running backs world, poised to revitalize the RB unit and accelerate recruiting momentum.

---

The Reported Hire: Mike Miller – Former Colorado RB Star & NFL Assistant Coach

Attribute	Details
Playing career	All‑American RB at Colorado (2006‑2009), 4,150 career rushing yards, 35 TDs
NFL experience	Assistant RB coach for the Denver Broncos (2015‑2021) – helped develop 1,200‑yard rushers
Coaching résumé	2022‑2024 RB coach at Boise State; known for modern zone‑read schemes
Connection to Sanders	Former teammate on the 2008 Colorado team; long‑standing personal relationship
Media reports	ESPN (Dec 20, 2025) and Sports Illustrated (Dec 21, 2025) cite insider sources confirming informal talks

“Mike brings a unique blend of Buffaloes heritage and NFL‑level expertise that fits Deion’s culture‑first approach.” – Colorado Insider, Dec 2025

---

How Miller’s Background Aligns with Colorado’s Needs

1. Proven Track Record in Developing dual‑Threat Backs

• guided KJ baker (Boise state) to 1,350 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns in 2023.
• integrated pass‑catching drills that increased RB receptions league‑wide by 18%.

2. Familiarity with Colorado’s Recruiting Landscape

• Strong ties to Denver high‑school pipelines (e.g., Denver East, Cherry Creek).
• Established relationships with Local Prep Coaches – a catalyst for securing top‑10 RB prospects.

3. NFL‑Level Scheme Knowledge

• Implemented Hybrid Pro‑Spread concepts with the Broncos, leveraging jet‑sweep and RPO (run‑pass option) attacks.
• Designed cut‑block packages that increased yards after contact by 22% for RBs under his tutelage.

---

Projected Impact on colorado’s Running Game

rapid Wins (First 6-12 Months)

1. Immediate betterment in ball security – expected drop from 4.2 to < 2.5 fumbles per season.
2. Enhanced pass‑catching ability – RBs projected to record +15 receptions collectively.

Long‑Term Benefits (2‑3 Years)

• Consistent 1,200‑yard rushers each season, positioning Colorado in the top 5 of the Pac‑12 rushing rankings.
• Increased NFL draft stock for RBs, boosting program prestige and attracting future talent.

---

Recruiting Advantages Tied to the Hire

• NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) Leverage: Miller’s NFL connections provide mentorship opportunities for recruits seeking pro pathways.
• Targeted regions: Focused outreach in Colorado Springs,Fort Collins,and neighboring Wyoming high schools.
• Showcase Events: Planned “Prime Time RB clinics” co‑hosted with Deion Sanders, offering hands‑on training and media exposure.

---

Practical tips for Prospective Recruits and Parents

1. ask about the RB progress plan: Inquire how Miller integrates RPO concepts into daily drills.
2. Request video breakdowns: Review recent Boise State RB footage to gauge coaching style.
3. Explore NIL packages: Discuss potential brand partnership opportunities facilitated by the Sanders‑Miller staff.

---

Timeline & Confirmation Process

Date	milestone
Dec 20, 2025	Initial reports surface on ESPN and SI citing insider sources.
Dec 22, 2025	Colorado Athletic Department issues “staff evaluation” statement – “All candidates undergoing final review.”
Late Jan 2026	Expected formal announcement at Colorado Football media Day (early February).
Feb 2026	Miller to begin official duties – overseeing RB drills, film sessions, and recruiting trips.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why is this hire considered “familiar”?

A: Miller played for Colorado, maintains a personal rapport with Deion Sanders, and has a shared history with current staff, creating a seamless cultural fit.

Q: Will Miller replace an existing RB coach?

A: Reports suggest the position will be restructured, merging the previous RB coach’s responsibilities into a “Running Backs & Player development” role led by Miller.

Q: How does this affect Colorado’s offensive scheme?

A: Expect a shift toward a balanced attack that blends Sanders’ “Air‑Raid” passing emphasis with Miller’s run‑heavy, tempo‑driven philosophy, generating a more unpredictable offense.

---

key Takeaways for Fans & Stakeholders

• Strategic hire that blends Colorado heritage with NFL expertise.
• Immediate on‑field improvements in ball security and receiving skills for RBs.
• Long‑term recruiting boost through NIL opportunities and strong regional ties.

Stay tuned to Archyde.com for live updates as Colorado finalizes it’s coaching roster.