The saying “Not everyone is supposed to climb the ranks with you” is often felt in sports, especially in college football, where athletes face constant change and competition. This feeling is amplified in today’s landscape with the NCAA transfer portal, which allows players to explore new opportunities for playing time and development.

For coach Deion Sanders and the Colorado Buffaloes, that dynamic plays out as players come and go, with some leaving in search of bigger roles or greener pastures. The transfer portal, in this sense, has become something of a “monopoly,” with athletes moving from one program to another, looking to land in a place that will prepare them for the next level.

Recently, Colorado Buffs defensive back Adonis Forrest Jr. announced his intention to enter the transfer portal when it opens on December 9th. Forrest, with one year of eligibility remaining, hopes to find a team that can provide him with the playing time and development he feels he needs to show his potential. His decision, shared on social media, comes in the middle of a season where the Buffaloes have made strides in the Big 12, currently at 6-2.

This departure raises questions about the state of Colorado’s roster and the competitive landscape under Coach Prime. While players like Shilo Sanders and Travis Hunter are also likely moving on, the program is actively recruiting new talent, including a recent commitment from ESPN 300 defensive back Alex Graham.

Deion Sanders asks if Texas Tech tradition is illegal ahead of showdown

For Forrest, the move provides a fresh start and, with the coaching experience he gained at Colorado, he is ready to make an impact at his next destination. Coach Sanders understands that player turnover is inevitable and he continues to build a program poised for success, despite the challenges of roster fluidity.

No. 20 Colorado faces Texas Tech in a Big 12 showdown on Saturday (4 p.m. ET on FOX).