Star CU lineman enters transfer portal
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Head coach Deion Sanders talks with offensive tackle Jordan Seaton during a game last year. Photo: Matthew Jonas/MediaNews Group/Boulder Daily Camera via Getty Images
The University of Colorado's star lineman, Jordan Seaton, has entered the transfer portal, dealing a significant setback to the Buffs' long-term plans.
Why it matters: The All-American left tackle's exit not only represents a loss of a cornerstone player but underscores how steep the challenge remains for head coach Deion Sanders and CU in the NIL era.
The latest: Seaton announced Monday night on Instagram that his "chapter" at CU was ending.
- "I never imagined this journey would come to a close in this way, but I am deeply grateful for every moment that led me here."
BFD: Seaton, projected to be a top pick in next year's NFL draft, becomes one of the most coveted non-quarterback players in the portal.
Between the lines: Seaton's departure was unlikely about playing time or exposure — leaving NIL compensation as a key factor.
- His NIL valuation at CU was $1.7 million, per On3, though one booster said Seaton could command closer to $2.5 million on the open market.
- Former teammate and fellow transfer Omarion Miller wrote: "Get yours brudda," on Seaton's social media post.
State of play: CU has also lost cornerback DJ McKinney and safety Tawfiq Byard on defense, part of a wave that has seen more than 30 Buffs enter the portal since it opened on Jan. 2.
- Sanders has moved quickly to restock the roster, with On3 ranking CU No. 31 nationally in transfer recruiting.
What they're saying: With the portal still open, "it's a little premature to comment until the dust finally settles," CU athletics department spokesperson Steve Hurlbert told Axios Boulder.
- "We've gotten a lot of talent so far, and I'm sure we'll get more high-profile guys before it closes," Hurlbert added.
Yes, but: The Seaton transfer feels like an especially big loss for CU, symbolically, and on the field.
- Buffs social media was torn between sadness and anger for the sudden move, with some pointing out Seaton's own posts on rampant player movement.
Context: A five-star recruit out of IMG Academy in Florida, Seaton committed to CU in December 2023 as Sanders' first major high school pledge.
- Seaton won the fan-voted Buffalo Heart Award last year, and Buffzone reporter Brian Howell noted he'll be the first winner of the award to leave CU.
The big picture: Sanders, whose contract runs through 2029, is now tasked with keeping and building around quarterback Julian Lewis, his other highly touted recruit.
- If Sanders' presence alone can't sway recruits, CU's new athletic director, Fernando Lovo, will have to make good on his promise to raise revenue if CU is to find a way to retain players in the new NIL era.