Rookie DB Ashley Gets Real at Buffs Practice

Colorado Buffaloes freshman defensive back Preston Ashley recently spoke to his team during spring practice, sharing a moment of candid self-reflection. Ashley detailed an instance during practice where he felt he did not give his full effort on a play involving wide receiver Quannell Farrakhan Jr. He was subsequently directed off the field by the cornerbacks coach.

Ashley expressed his appreciation for the coaching staff's firm approach, stating he values individuals who maintain high standards. He highlighted that he specifically thanked the coach for the criticism, emphasizing his need for such guidance to improve.

Ashley, a 5-foot-11, 185-pound cornerback, hails from Brandon, Mississippi. He was a three-star recruit, ranked as the No. 28 safety in the 2026 class. During his senior season in 2025-26, he recorded 37 solo tackles, four tackles for loss, six passes defended, one sack, and one interception.

He is one of 16 players in the 2026 recruiting class committed to Colorado. This recruiting class is currently ranked No. 57 nationally by 247Sports. The Buffaloes have heavily utilized the transfer portal, bringing in 43 transfers this offseason, a number comparable to schools with new coaching staffs.

The Buffaloes are entering their fourth season under head coach Deion Sanders. After a 4-8 record in 2023 and a 9-3 regular season in 2024, the team regressed to a 3-9 record in 2025. The team is looking to improve its performance with the new recruiting and transfer classes, alongside a revamped coaching staff.