Former Colorado player says he doesn’t want to ‘play for clicks’ under Deion Sanders

A former Colorado cornerback entered the transfer portal this week and criticized coach Deion Sanders’ program on the way out.

Cormani McClain, a former five-star recruit, posted a YouTube video Sunday explaining his decision to change schools.

“I feel like I just don’t want to play for clicks. I actually want to be involved with a great leading program that’s going to develop players,” the 20-year-old said, referring to the widespread media attention at Colorado. “I want … to be a part of a real and great program that’s going to impact me.”

McClain recorded 13 tackles and two pass deflections in his freshman season with the Buffaloes.

ESPN’s No. 4 player in the 2023 recruiting class is the latest in a string of former Colorado players to hit the transfer portal. According to ESPN, 26 players have announced plans to leave the Buffaloes since November.

“Coach Prime,” who led the team to a 4-8 record in 2023, said he isn’t worried about roster turnover.

“We’re good. I trust the recruiting team. I trust our coaches, and please have some faith in me,” Sanders told reporters last week. “We good. We all right.”

The Hall of Fame cornerback also wished the best for the departing McClain.

“I want that kid to soar,” the coach said. “Sometimes you need to disconnect from something to reconnect to something else to restart you and reenergize you and stabilize you.”