United Football League names head coach for 2027 Colorado expansion

EL PASO COUNTY, Colo. (KRDO) -- The United Football League (UFL) announces that former University of Colorado head coach Rick Neuheisel will lead the new franchise in Colorado.

The UFL says Neuheisel will return to Colorado after leading the Dallas Renegades in 2026, bringing the team roster with him.

According to officials, he began his coaching career at the University of Colorado, where he compiled a 33-14 record from 1995-98. In his first season, he led the Buffaloes to a 10-2 record and a Cotton Bowl victory. Colorado again went 10-2 in 1996, finished No. 4 in the nation and defeated No. 12 Oregon, 38-6, in the Cotton Bowl.

Neuheisel himself was a starting quarterback at UCLA, later playing professionally with the San Antonio Gunslingers of the USFL and the San Diego Chargers and Tampa Bay Buccaneers of the NFL before beginning his coaching career, says the UFL.

“Colorado has always held a special place in my heart,” said Neuheisel. “I have a tremendous amount of respect for the football culture and the people of this state, and I’m excited to return. Colorado Springs has always meant a lot to me—I’ve brought my staff here in the past, and now getting to call it home makes this even more meaningful. It’s a great place to build a team, and I’m looking forward to becoming part of this community, connecting with fans across Colorado and creating new memories together.”

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