Introduction
Kaidon Salter’s journey through college football is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the pursuit of excellence. From a promising high school quarterback in Cedar Hill, Texas, to a transfer portal veteran at the University of Colorado, Salter’s path has been anything but conventional. His story intertwines with the evolution of the Colorado Buffaloes’ quarterback situation, especially under the guidance of head coach Deion Sanders.
Early Life and High School Career
Born in Cedar Hill, Texas, Kaidon Salter showcased his football prowess early on. As a high school quarterback, he was recognized for his dual-threat capabilities, combining a strong arm with the agility to make plays with his legs. His performances earned him a four-star recruit status and a scholarship to the University of Tennessee, setting the stage for his collegiate career.
The Tennessee Chapter
Salter’s time at Tennessee began with high expectations. However, his tenure was marred by off-field issues. In June 2021, he was dismissed from the team following an arrest on charges of simple possession and driving without a license. This setback led him to transfer to Liberty University, where he aimed to rebuild his career.
Rebuilding at Liberty University
At Liberty, Salter found a fresh start. He quickly became the team’s starting quarterback, leading the Flames to a 21-4 record over two seasons. His 2023 season was particularly impressive, as he threw for 2,876 yards and 32 touchdowns, while also rushing for 579 yards and seven touchdowns. Salter’s performance earned him Conference USA Championship Game MVP honors and a berth in the 2024 Fiesta Bowl, marking a significant achievement for Liberty’s football program.
Transfer to Colorado
After his successful stint at Liberty, Salter entered the transfer portal, seeking new challenges and opportunities. In December 2024, he committed to the University of Colorado, joining head coach Deion Sanders’ revamped program. Salter was expected to fill the void left by Shedeur Sanders, who had been a key player for the Buffaloes.
The Quarterback Controversy at Colorado
Initial Struggles
The 2025 season began with high hopes for Salter, but the Buffaloes faced early challenges. In the season opener against Georgia Tech, Colorado suffered a loss, and Salter’s performance was scrutinized. Subsequent games saw a rotation at the quarterback position, with sophomore Ryan Staub and freshman Julian Lewis also getting opportunities to start .
Return as Starting Quarterback
Amidst the quarterback shuffle, head coach Deion Sanders decided to reinstate Salter as the starting quarterback for the team’s game against Wyoming. This decision was influenced by Salter’s experience and leadership qualities, which the coaching staff believed could stabilize the offense.
Performance Against Wyoming
In his return as the starter, Salter delivered a standout performance, throwing three touchdown passes to lead Colorado to a 37-20 victory over Wyoming. His ability to execute plays and manage the game effectively demonstrated his value to the team and reinforced the coaching staff’s confidence in his abilities.
Impact on Colorado’s Season
Salter’s leadership and consistent performance were pivotal in Colorado’s efforts to regain momentum in the 2025 season. His experience provided stability to the quarterback position, allowing the team to focus on developing other aspects of their game. As the season progressed, Salter’s role became increasingly crucial in Colorado’s pursuit of success in the Big 12 Conference.
Looking Ahead
As the 2025 season unfolds, Kaidon Salter‘s journey reflects the dynamic nature of college football. His experiences—from overcoming early setbacks to becoming a key player at Colorado—underscore the importance of resilience and adaptability in achieving success. For the Buffaloes, Salter’s presence at quarterback offers a blend of experience and leadership that is essential for navigating the challenges of high-level competition.
Conclusion
Kaidon Salter’s path from a high school standout to a transfer quarterback at Colorado is a compelling narrative of perseverance and determination. His impact on the Buffaloes’ quarterback situation highlights the complexities and dynamics of college football programs. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Salter to see how he continues to shape his legacy in the collegiate football landscape.
