The Buffs are now without their best defensive player from 2025.
When it rains in Boulder, it tends to pour. Wednesday afternoon was no different.
Less than an hour after news of Omarion Miller’s departure from Colorado broke, standout safety Tawfiq Byard announced he’s also planning on jumping ship when the transfer portal opens in early January.
Byard, a sophomore transfer from USF and the younger brother of NFL All-Pro Kevin Byard III, came to Boulder prior to the 2025 season with big shoes to fill. Following the departure of the defensive leader Cam’Ron Silmon-Craig to the NFL, the Buffs desperately needed a safety to step up into his former role, and Byard did just that, easily becoming CU’s best defensive player last season.
In 2025, Byard played in 10 games for the Buffs, leading the team with 79 total tackles and two forced fumbles, along with an interception, four pass breakups, and a half sack. What’s even more impressive is that Byard played nearly half the season with a broken hand, playing with a full cast from the Iowa State game onwards. That didn’t make any difference, as he was arguably better statistically after suffering the injury.
To be frank, Byard’s departure is a major loss to Deion Sanders’ football program. Byard emerged as one of CU’s best players in 2025 and a leader in the locker room. Now, after breaking out onto the scene as a potential all-conference player in 2026, he’ll take his talents elsewhere.
Thanks for bringing fans some joy in an otherwise tough season, Tawfiq. Best of luck wherever you end up.
Category: General Sports
