Colorado’s secondary is setting the tone early in fall camp

Colorado's secondary will enter the spotlight after several key losses this past offseason. Safety Carter Stoutmire should take on a major role under defensive coordinator Robert Livingston. (Photo by Cristian Blanco/Sko Buffs Sports)

Fall is in the air, which means Colorado Buffaloes football is not far behind. Although pads have yet to clash, defensive coordinator Robert Livingston and defensive backs DJ McKinney and Carter Stoutmire gave insight into the team after practice on Wednesday. 

With little turnover from last season, Livingston has been working hard to advance his scheme around the new unit. Expect to see some of the same concepts revamped and improved for 2025, with added changes. 

“We’ll do some things defensively that are drastically different from what we did last year, a little bit more of the NFL stuff,” Livingston said. “It’s our job as coaches to take our best players and put them in a position to be successful.”

The Buffs will have high expectations for their returners on the defensive side to take command and uphold the team’s culture. With the most returning experience coming from the secondary, it is only natural that leadership has been found there early in camp. 

“We're replacing seven or eight starters, so [leadership] is very fluid,” Livingston said. “Guys that I think could take that leadership role, Arden Walker…Preston (Hodge), DJ and Carter. I don't think you can anoint leaders; people have to follow them.”

Colorado cornerback DJ McKinney celebrates a pick-six last season against Oklahoma State. (Remi Krupinski/Sko Buffs Sports)

Having been the only defensive player to attend Big 12 Media Day, McKinney has taken on a role as the face of the defense in the absence of Travis Hunter. 

“I think DJ’s got a chance to have a breakout year,” Livingston said. “DJ can be as good as he wants to be. The world is DJ’s oyster.” 

Establishing himself as the top corner creates different expectations for this fall camp. Pressure has been welcomed by McKinney, only turning into fuel for his teammates.

“It's amazing having my coaches be able to trust in me. Being out here with my guys, with Coach Prime again, it's a blessing,” McKinney said. “My motivation is my team. I want to be the best for them, I want to lock down my side of the field.”

Alongside him, Stoutmire has found stability at safety. Having played a hybrid role in three different positions over two years at Colorado, he is now focusing on one spot. Stoutmire is owning his voice on the team while attacking practice. 

“Whenever your number is called, step up to the plate. The game is all about opportunity, so just take advantage of your opportunity,” Stoutmire said. “It’s good to see live bullets. You have to be on your P’s and Q’s.”

As bullets fly and the war of fall camp heats up, there are no guaranteed spots on the field for anyone. The defensive culture under Livingston has grown into one where only hungry dogs will eat. 

“There is nothing given here. It doesn't matter if you make a million bucks or you're a walk-on,” Livingston said. “We’re going to play the best players.”