In a blow to Colorado’s already struggling offensive line, veteran lineman Kahlil Benson has entered the college football transfer portal after just one season with the Buffaloes. The 6-foot-5, 305-pound lineman’s departure marks a significant shift for Deion Sanders’ offensive front as the program continues to reshuffle and rebuild.
Benson, who previously spent four years at Indiana, joined Colorado last offseason but faced an up-and-down season marred by injury. Despite playing through various positions—right guard, left guard, and right tackle—Benson managed 405 total offensive snaps, starting at right guard for the Buffs’ first four games. He played in nine games overall, but his impact was limited. Benson allowed two sacks, one quarterback hit, and three hurries, according to the team’s official stats.
The loss of Benson adds to the growing list of offensive linemen departing the program. Along with him, Yakiri Walker, Hank Zilinskas, Tyler Johnson, and Payton Kirkland have all entered the transfer portal, all after spending just one season with the Buffaloes. This exodus leaves Colorado in a precarious position as they attempt to solidify their offensive line for the 2025 season.
On top of the O-line departures, Coach Sanders is now on the lookout for a new offensive line coach following Phil Loadholt’s exit to Mississippi State after just one season on staff. With a major reshuffling in progress, the Buffs have their work cut out as they look to rebuild an offensive line that struggled throughout the 2024 season. Will Coach Prime be able to bring in the right talent and leadership to fix the line before next season? Time will tell.
