Rising Star: How Kaidon Salter is Climbing 2026 NFL Draft Boards
Rising Star: How Kaidon Salter is Climbing 2026 NFL Draft Boards
Despite a challenging 3-9 season for the Colorado Buffaloes in 2025, the draft buzz surrounding quarterback Kaidon Salter (often appearing as 'Slater' on draft tapes) has never been higher. As we approach the final weeks before the 2026 NFL Draft, Salter is emerging as the premier dual-threat quarterback of the class, with scouts enamored by his ability to make off-platform throws and extend plays with his legs. In a season where Colorado struggled to protect the pocket, Salter’s individual brilliance shone through, keeping the Buffaloes competitive in several high-scoring Big 12 matchups.
The 2025 Colorado team faced an uphill battle, finishing 1-8 in conference play, but Salter was the clear bright spot. He operated a no-huddle spread option under offensive coordinator Pat Shurmur that, while inconsistent, flashed explosive potential. Salter’s ability to navigate pressure was put to the ultimate test, as Colorado’s offensive line often collapsed against elite Big 12 pass rushes from teams like Texas Tech and Utah. Despite this, Salter’s 'NFL Draft Tape' is filled with highlights of him evading three or four defenders before launching 50-yard strikes downfield.
Developing Under Coach Prime
In his time at Boulder under Deion Sanders, Salter has developed a professional-level poise and a 'thick skin' that NFL executives value. Sanders has frequently praised Salter’s work ethic and leadership, noting that he never wavered despite the team's win-loss record. This mental toughness, combined with his physical tools—a quick release and elite-level speed—has caused many scouts to compare him to a young Lamar Jackson or Jayden Daniels. His 2025 stats, while hampered by the team's overall performance, showed significant improvement in his completion percentage and decision-making in the red zone.
The Buffaloes' last game of the 2025 season was a rivalry matchup against Kansas State, a loss that underscored the team's need for more depth. However, Salter accounted for over 300 yards of total offense in that game alone, leaving a lasting impression on the scouts in attendance. His ability to read defenses and find open lanes in a chaotic environment has moved him from a projected third-round developmental pick into the first-round conversation for QB-needy teams.
A High-Upside Draft Prospect
As the 2026 draft nears, Salter’s stock is trending upward. He is expected to be one of the top quarterbacks taken, with teams like the Las Vegas Raiders and New York Giants reportedly doing extensive homework on his character and scheme fit. While some analysts point to Colorado’s 3-9 record as a concern, most scouts look at the 'trash' he had to work with and see a player who did more with less than almost any other quarterback in the country.
With the NFL Combine and Pro Day in the books, Salter has checked all the physical boxes. His 4.45-second 40-yard dash time and his ability to hit every level of the field during passing drills have confirmed his status as a high-upside prospect. For a quarterback who spent his college years in the spotlight of 'Prime Time,' the transition to the bright lights of the NFL seems like a natural next step.
