Colorado Football’s Game-Changing In-State Offensive Lineman Commits for 2026—Could This Be the Recruit That Transforms the Team?

Manu’s commitment continues Sanders’ run of adding depth to a revamped offensive line that looks to be a catalyst for an improved rushing attack.

AI-assisted summary
• Three-star offensive lineman Josiah Manu flipped his commitment from San Jose State to Colorado.
• Manu, a Colorado native, is ranked as the No. 108 offensive tackle in the 2026 class.
• This commitment boosts Colorado’s 2026 recruiting class to 11 commits and improves their national ranking to 78th overall.
• The addition of Manu strengthens Colorado’s offensive line depth under head coach Deion Sanders.

Manu had been committed to San Jose State since July 1, but Deion Sanders and company worked their magic to flip the in-state recruit.247Sports ranks the Loveland, Colorado native as the No. 108 offensive tackle and the No. 14 player from his home state of Colorado.Colorado football received a commitment from 2026 three-star offensive lineman Josiah Manu on Saturday evening.Watching Colorado’s football program take shape under Deion Sanders, you can’t help but notice the steady climb in talent acquisition—and the latest shuffle just turned quite a few heads. Josiah Manu, a three-star offensive lineman from right here in Colorado, had his sights set elsewhere, namely San Jose State. But something about the Buffs and their vision pulled him back home. Ranked as the 108th offensive tackle in the 2026 class and boasting strong in-state credentials, Manu’s flip doesn’t just boost numbers—it promises to fortify Colorado’s frontline in a way that could reshape their ground game. With this commitment, the team’s 2026 recruiting haul hits 11 players, nudging their national ranking upward, though there’s plenty of work left in the Big 12. Still, if you ask me, this move is a telling sign of the momentum building behind Coach Prime’s revitalization efforts. Trust me, this is one to keep your eyes on. LEARN MORE.

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Follow Charlie Strella on X, Threads and Instagram.Colorado’s 2026 recruiting class now sits at 11 commitments with Manu’s flip placing the class at No. 78 overall, but still last in the Big 12. Manu is the first Colorado prospect to commit to the Buffs this recruiting cycle.