Deion Sanders clears the drama in Colorado: rules out Ryan Staub as QB1

Deion Sanders grabs headlines in Colorado again after denying that Ryan Staub is officially the Buffaloes’ QB1, while keeping the door open for Kaidon Salter for Week 3 against Houston.

The controversy emerged after Staub’s standout performance against Delaware, completing 7 of 10 passes for 157 yards and two touchdowns, sparking rumors about a potential change in the starting role.

Deion Sanders shuts down rumors about Ryan Staub

Colorado head coach Deion Sanders addressed the situation in a press conference. “I’m not confirming anything for any of you, you already know. We’re not like that. We have capable players. Staub has been doing a phenomenal job with most of the reps, but I haven’t made that evaluation or decision yet.”

With these words, Sanders emphasized that the starting position is still undecided, despite the young quarterback impressive performance.

Staub rise has been remarkable, considering he spent his first two years as a backup behind Shedeur Sanders.

NEW: Deion Sanders refutes report that Colorado is expected to start Ryan Staub at QB vs. Houston:

“In today’s media, we don’t care about being correct anymore. We just want to be first.”

(h/t @davidubben) https://t.co/TmRfNRghTh https://t.co/NAOT9b1F0p pic.twitter.com/qoyw9rVGvJ

— On3 (@On3sports) September 9, 2025

However, Deion Sanders praised Staub character and work ethic, noting that beyond stats, he looks for players who fit the team’s culture.

“That’s the type of player we look for. Often, these guys don’t have the three, four, or five stars that excite everyone, but they fit what we are.”

Anticipation and strategy for Week 3

With Kaidon Salter announced as the starter for the 2025 season and Julian Lewis as backup, Deion Sanders has approached the situation with caution.

The decision on who will lead the offense against Houston will depend on practice performance and coaching staff evaluations.

Sanders made it clear there’s no rush. “There’s no accountability when you make a mistake, nobody says anything. You just go with it. I’m not saying that’s right, but that’s how things are in the media.”

The coach has reiterated his commitment to fairly evaluating all quarterbacks, ensuring any decision will be based on performance and preparation, not media speculation.

Next week, Staub performance and Salter patience will be key in determining Colorado QB1. With Deion Sanders at the helm, uncertainty remains, fueling anticipation among fans and analysts over who will lead the Buffaloes in the Big 12.