How Colorado’s tight end group fits into the “Go-Go” offense
Colorado has never been known for its tight ends.
Only incoming fifth-year Zach Atkins recorded receiving stats in the position group, catching 20 passes for 149 receiving yards and didn’t find the end zone in 2025.
This year, new offensive coordinator Brennan Marion’s “Go-Go” offense may be able to unlock a new level for the position group.
Led by Atkins, who returns for his second year as a Buff, the tight ends are under good leadership.
“He had some touchdown catches, but he also did the dirty work he needed to do in the core,” tight ends coach Josh Niblett said. “He's doing a really good job of being a dominant blocker on the perimeter. I'm proud of his progress.”
Atkins has paired his experience with speed, strong hands and size to help turn the Buffs around from a three-win season last year.
“There's not a lot of tight ends that are as fast, and with my speed and my hands in the country to be honest,” Atkins said at Big 12 football media days. “I'm definitely going to go show it this year.”
Beyond Atkins, Niblett praised the depth of his position unit, which has allowed him to put two tight ends on the field.
“I think the neat thing about our offense is it calls for a lot of guys with different tool sets,” Niblett said. “What we've been able to do is create depth from an 11 personnel, 12 personnel group.”
This offseason, versatility has been a big part of implementing the “Go-Go” offense. The tight ends are no exception, being ready for the play to evolve into a run or pass based on the quarterbacks’ discretion.
“Yeah, I mean I love it,” Atkins said. “There's still a lot of stuff going on with it. Coach Marion has been unbelievable in putting me in situations to be successful.”
Outside Atkins, the Buffs landed fifth-year Northern Colorado transfer, Fisher Clements.
“We call him the computer,” Niblett said. “He can take so much intel and then he just distributes it by how he plays.”
Clements only appeared in 21 games across four seasons as a Bear, having 10 receptions for 77 yards and two touchdowns.
Niblett also sang the praises of fourth-year Charlie Williams. Williams didn’t see much field time last season but participated in kickoffs and kickoff returns. Still, Williams has shown growth during the offseason and could be utilized in sets this year.
“[He] does a really good job at blocking at the point of attack,” Niblett said. “He's really good on the perimeter and understands route running and understands this offense.”
That depth and competition have shaped the tight end room into a unit that can meaningfully contribute in the “Go-Go” offense.
“We have competitive depth in our room which allows for great practices, great reps, quality reps and intentional reps,” Niblett said.
Atkins is one of the few returners from last season. He’s been able to step up as a leader with that experience.
“I think that all of us leaders, from all the way when we started in January to now, have experienced a lot of growth,” Atkins said. “I think a lot of growth was needed there, and I think that all of us have been doing a way better job.”
Whether it’ll be Atkins, Clements, Williams or another tight end that steps up, coaches Niblett and Marion will have a plethora of talent to draw from who can help contribute game-to-game.
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