BOULDER, Colo. – Colorado football continues to build for the future, extending a scholarship offer to James Armstrong, a promising quarterback prospect in the 2028 recruiting class. The offer, made Saturday, signals the Buffaloes’ proactive approach to identifying and securing talent at the most critical position in the game, even as they navigate the present challenges and opportunities of the Deion Sanders era.
Armstrong, a 6-foot-3, 220-pound signal caller from Hopewell, Pennsylvania, currently holds offers from a growing list of Power Five programs, including Duke, Florida State, North Carolina, Pittsburgh, and West Virginia, according to Buffaloes Wire. While unranked by major recruiting services at this stage, the interest from established programs underscores his potential.
The offer to Armstrong is the 10th made by Colorado to quarterbacks in the 2028 class, demonstrating a clear emphasis on building depth and competition at the position. This early focus is particularly noteworthy given the potential timeline of current quarterback Julian Lewis, who could be eligible for the 2027 NFL Draft after his junior season.
Early Quarterback Focus Reflects Long-Term Planning
Colorado’s aggressive pursuit of 2028 quarterbacks isn’t simply about numbers; it’s about mitigating risk and ensuring a smooth transition when Lewis, a highly-touted recruit himself, potentially moves on. The Buffaloes experienced significant quarterback turnover prior to Sanders’ arrival, and the coaching staff appears determined to avoid a similar situation. Securing a commitment from a top quarterback in the 2028 class would provide stability and allow for crucial developmental time within the program.
The early offers also allow Colorado to build relationships with these prospects and their families, positioning the program as a potential destination well before official visits and decision timelines come into play. This is a common strategy in modern recruiting, where building trust and rapport can be as important as on-field evaluation.
Armstrong’s Profile: Potential and Development
Armstrong’s size and build are already attracting attention from college coaches. At 6-foot-3 and 220 pounds, he possesses the physical tools to withstand the rigors of college football and deliver the ball effectively. However, his current status as an unranked prospect suggests there’s still significant room for development in areas like accuracy, decision-making, and arm strength.
Evaluating quarterbacks at this early stage is inherently challenging. High school performance doesn’t always translate to the college level, and physical attributes are only part of the equation. Coaches will be closely monitoring Armstrong’s progress over the next two seasons, looking for improvements in his technique, leadership qualities, and ability to read defenses.
The Broader Picture: Colorado’s Recruiting Strategy
The offer to Armstrong is part of a larger recruiting effort by Colorado, which is aiming to build a roster capable of competing in the Big 12, and beyond. Sanders and his staff have emphasized the importance of recruiting players who fit their culture and are committed to the program’s vision.
While Colorado made headlines with its transfer portal activity in 2023, the program recognizes the need to develop talent through traditional recruiting. The 2028 class represents an opportunity to build a foundation for sustained success, and the early offers to quarterbacks like Armstrong are a testament to that commitment.
The Buffaloes are also actively recruiting other positions in the 2028 class, with offers extended to prospects across the country. The coaching staff is prioritizing players who possess both athletic ability and academic qualifications, reflecting a holistic approach to recruiting.
Looking ahead, Colorado’s recruiting efforts will intensify as the 2028 class moves closer to its senior seasons. Official visits, camps, and combines will provide opportunities for the coaching staff to evaluate prospects in person and build relationships. The commitment of a quarterback in the 2028 class will be a significant milestone, but the Buffaloes will continue to pursue other talented players to build a well-rounded and competitive roster. The next major recruiting event will be the spring evaluation period, where coaches can visit high schools and assess players’ progress firsthand.
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