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Former Cal RB who entered College Football transfer portal to visit Colorado
© Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images

Colorado fans, keep your eyes on Boulder this week—Deion Sanders might be making another major portal splash. Former Cal running back Jaivian Thomas, the top-ranked RB still available in the transfer portal, is set to visit the Buffaloes on Tuesday and Wednesday, according to On3’s Hayes Fawcett.

Coming off a strong sophomore campaign, Thomas is a backfield weapon with proven production. At Cal, he led the team with 626 rushing yards and seven touchdowns on just 100 carries, averaging an explosive 6.26 yards per attempt. Thomas consistently turned limited touches into big plays.

The Buffaloes are looking to replace last season’s leading rusher, Isaiah Augustave, who transferred to Virginia. With no clear RB1 currently on the roster, Thomas’ arrival could instantly fill that void. He brings two years of eligibility and a physical, downhill style that complements Colorado’s revamped offense under Coach Prime.

Thomas would join a growing list of impact players lured to Boulder through the portal, including QB Kaidon Salter (Liberty) and WR Joseph Williams (Tulsa). Colorado has already secured 21 portal additions this offseason, per On3, signaling a clear intent: rebuild fast, win faster. Thomas’ visit isn’t just another recruiting pitch—it’s part of a calculated push to elevate CU into Big 12 title contention.

Adding a playmaker like Thomas could shift expectations for the Buffaloes this season. His decision comes at a critical point in Colorado’s spring efforts, where positional depth and leadership are still taking shape. If Sanders and staff can lock in Thomas during this midweek visit, it would be a powerful statement heading into summer.

The top running back in the portal is in Boulder. If the Buffs seal the deal, the rest of the Big 12 better take notice.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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