Colorado Athletic Director Rick George Steps Down After Decade

The University of Colorado announced on November 2, 2023, that Rick George will step down as the athletic director at the end of the year. George, who has held the position since 2013, will transition to a role as a special adviser to the chancellor. His departure marks a significant shift in the university’s athletic leadership, particularly following the recent arrival of head football coach Deion Sanders.

Rick George has served as Colorado’s sixth full-time athletic director, overseeing a pivotal era for the university’s sports programs. Prior to joining Colorado, he was the chief operating officer for the Texas Rangers. Under his tenure, the football program experienced notable changes, cycling through coaches including Mike MacIntyre, Mel Tucker, and Karl Dorrell before the hiring of Sanders, who came from Jackson State.

The announcement of Sanders as head coach in December 2022 was a significant development for the Buffaloes. He brought with him his sons, including Travis Hunter, who has made headlines as a potential Heisman Trophy candidate. In Sanders’ first season, Colorado achieved a commendable record of 9-4, a sharp improvement from previous years. However, the team has struggled in the current season, holding a record of 3-7 as of November 2023, particularly missing key players like Hunter and quarterback Shedeur Sanders.

Despite the challenges, Sanders received a contract extension after the successful 2022 season, securing a five-year deal worth $54 million that runs through 2029. His relationship with George appeared positive, marked by mutual respect despite occasional playful banter about scheduling.

As George prepares to leave his role, his legacy includes significant developments in Colorado’s athletics, particularly the revitalization of the football program. The transition comes at a critical time as the university aims to build on the momentum generated under Sanders’ leadership. Moving forward, the Buffaloes will navigate these changes in hopes of continuing their upward trajectory in collegiate athletics.