Deion Sanders names Colorado football's top cornerback for 2026 season

Deion Sanders spoke to the media on Tuesday morning and raved about a specific transfer portal addition.

"That guy," as Coach Prime called him, is Notre Dame transfer cornerback Cree Thomas. Thomas has been a standout throughout spring camp, beginning with the first two practices, during which he had five interceptions.

Sanders, a Hall of Fame cornerback, knows when he sees a talent at the position and wasn't shy about saying what he sees in Thomas.

"Cree is the No. 1 guy right now," Sanders said. "He's that guy. I am loving what I am seeing right now."

Thomas will be a redshirt freshman in 2026 after only playing in three games with the Fighting Irish. After only 13 spring practices, it sure seems like he has his head coach's approval to be a Week 1 starter.

Sanders doubled down on his praise, pointing not just to Thomas' play on the field, but his presence off it.

"He is a good young man, he is what this program is about," Sanders continued.

Thomas embodies what Sanders and his recruiting staff were looking for this offseason: talented players with a desire to work and something to prove. Thomas is well on his way toward proving the staff right for bringing him in.

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This article originally appeared on Buffaloes Wire: Deion Sanders labels Cree Thomas Colorado football's top cornerback