Colorado University Athletics
Colorado Secondary Continues to Evolve During Spring Practice
March 25, 2026 | Football
Youth, leadership and transfer talent shaping cornerback room
BOULDER — On the hottest day of the spring, the Colorado Buffaloes continued spring practice on Franklin Field, emphasizing competition and development as the secondary continues to take shape.
Following practice, cornerbacks coach Aaron Fletcher addressed the media, highlighting both the makeup of his defensive back group and his early experience in Boulder.
Fletcher, who joined the staff after receiving a call from head coach Deion Sanders shortly after Thanksgiving, described the opportunity as unexpected.
"This opportunity actually came about. It was definitely a blessing," Fletcher said. "I wasn't expecting it at this time around… I'm eternally grateful, just thankful and happy to be here."
The cornerback room features a mix of youth, length and athleticism, with limited returning experience. Fletcher pointed to transfer Justin Eaglin as one of the most seasoned players in the group, while emphasizing the overall upside of the unit.
"A lot of youth, but a lot of athleticism and potential," Fletcher said. "Some fiery, young, competitive guys… but we've got to continue to grow repetition and get those guys experience so productivity turns into production on the field."
Among the newcomers is Cree Thomas, a former four-star recruit who transferred from Notre Dame, adding both pedigree and confidence to the room.
"I feel like they're going to put me in positions to play to my strengths," Thomas said. "Playing press man, that's something that I'm confident in… I just wanted to be a part of a culture shift and go win some games here."
Thomas has already flashed playmaking ability during spring practice, recording multiple interceptions while embracing an aggressive mindset.
"I feel like I need to go make plays," he said. "I can't let it come to me."
Returning to the room is RJ Johnson, now in his third year in the system, providing experience and leadership to a largely new group.
"My leadership," Johnson said when asked about his offseason focus. "This is my third year here… just being more vocal and stepping up into that role."
Johnson emphasized the unit's growth throughout the spring, pointing to improved chemistry and a shared focus on raising the standard.
"Everybody's doing a great job of gelling together and becoming one team," he said. "The ultimate goal is winning a championship in the fall."
Development has been a central focus throughout spring practices, particularly as players adjust to increased competition and expectations. Fletcher noted that growth within the room has already begun to show, especially in leadership and confidence.
Eaglin, in particular, has taken steps forward this spring.
"He's starting to become a lot more vocal… starting to get comfortable," Fletcher said. "He's starting to feel himself a little bit, and I think he makes us all better."
Fletcher also highlighted the emergence of Creee Thomas, whose production and energy have stood out during camp.
"He's got a point to prove," Fletcher said. "You're starting to see it show up on the field… he's doing a really good job, and it's starting to permeate throughout the team."
As the group continues to develop, Fletcher emphasized that the foundation of elite cornerback play goes beyond physical tools, pointing instead to mindset and discipline.
"A guy that's competitive, resilient… a never-lose mentality," Fletcher said. "Patience, discipline, those are the things that separate good corners from great ones."
Working alongside defensive coordinator Chris Marve and the rest of the defensive staff has also played a key role in Fletcher's transition. He described the staff as collaborative and detail-oriented, creating an environment focused on solutions and continuous improvement.
The daily competition against a talented wide receiver group has further accelerated development in the secondary.
"Going against those guys every day only makes us better," Fletcher said.
With spring practice continuing, the Buffaloes will look to translate that growth into consistent on-field performance as they build toward the spring game and the 2026 season.
Fans wanting to get a first glimpse of the 2026 Colorado Buffaloes football team can claim tickets now for the annual AT&T Black & Gold Day.
