Deion Sanders Names New Running Backs Coach After Faulk Leaves

Deion Sanders has already found a replacement for Marshall Faulk, who left Colorado to become the head coach at Southern University. This marks the second offseason in a row that Colorado needed a new running backs coach. But this time, Sanders didn’t have to look far.

The Buffaloes have promoted Johnnie Mack to running backs coach, according to reporter Brian Howell. Mack spent last season as an analyst and assistant running backs coach, learning under Faulk. He now takes over the main role after a full year in Sanders’ system. Colorado also added Kyle Wagner from Sacramento State as an assistant running backs coach, giving the team two coaches to help develop the running backs.

Faulk only spent one season at Colorado, but he made a real difference. Even though the Buffaloes finished 3-9, their running game improved a lot. They finished the 2025 season with 1,127 yards on designed runs and 10 rushing touchdowns, a big step up from previous years. Mack now has a chance to continue that progress.

Johnnie Mack brings 11 years of coaching experience from schools like Southeastern, Hawaii, Houston Baptist, East Central, and SMU. He also played running back at Texas Tech, giving him personal experience at the position. His knowledge of Colorado’s roster and a year under Faulk made him the obvious choice for the job.

Deion Sanders is also changing the offensive staff. Brennan Marion was hired as the new offensive coordinator, bringing a system that uses two-back formations and fast tempo to confuse defenses. Brett Bartolone, who called plays at the end of last season, left for Nevada. With Mack’s promotion and Marion’s hiring, Sanders is rebuilding the offense from the ground up.

Spring practice is coming soon, giving Mack the chance to show he’s ready to lead the running backs and help Colorado improve after last year. With these changes, Deion Sanders is aiming for a stronger and faster offense in 2026.

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