It was in 1987 that Athletic Director Rick George arrived in Boulder. Working under celebrated coach Bill McCartney as a recruiting coordinator, he helped the program chase excellence. Over the years, he assumed greater responsibilities across multiple programs, eventually returning as the Athletic Director in 2013. However, after 13 years, he is stepping down from his position.

Becoming the only Colorado AD to achieve the Athletic Director of the Year honor, he guided the program to excellence, bringing the legendary Deion Sanders to Boulder. And Coach Prime had loads to say as he penned an emotional note. “I don’t feel like I’m losing him,” Deion Sanders starts. “Because I feel like he’s gonna be involved in the program. ”

Last week, George announced his decision to step down as an AD. “The University of Colorado is a special place, and I’ll always cherish the incredible relationships I’ve made during my time here in Boulder,” he said. Rick George’s contribution to Colorado has been immense. Leading the program through the shaky grounds during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as generating a whopping $100 million in a fundraising campaign, he remains a cherished face in Boulder.

Instead of guiding Boulder in the capacity of an Athletic Director, he will step into the role of Special Advisor and AD Emeritus until his successor is named.

Presently, the Buffs are going through an emotionally draining time, and overall, it’s been a challenging year for Boulder. With three quarterbacks rotating as the starters, the Buffaloes are staring down at a 3-7 record. Although with quarterback JuJu Lewis steering the offense, there is some hope. However, the playoff ambitions, which Sanders had cradled during the season, “We want to win; We want to win at all costs,” drowned after a 22-29 loss to West Virginia, turning into a distant dream.

Prime Time himself went through a major health crisis. Weight loss, toe amputations, and battling cancer took their toll. For weeks, Folsom Field didn’t see his tall stature, walking by the sidelines, shouting orders during drills and practice reps. After undergoing surgery, he was back on the field the next day. His focus was on his roster. On Gamedays, he won’t even sit down for a while. Fans would see an assistant running behind him, carrying a stool, in case he needed it.

While the locker room is going through a rough terrain, Rick George remains confident of his team’s ability. 

Rick George is rooting for Deion Sanders’ success

After pouring all his sweat and blood into his program, dedicating everything to it, Deion Sanders’ 2025 season failed to take off. But that was not the reason why AD George is stepping down. “He didn’t leave because of what’s transpiring this year. He’s gonna still help the program,” Sanders added in his note. ‘He’s gonna still help the program. I love him,” and “I wouldn’t be here without him.” George has been a constant source of strength and support for Prime Time.

Presently, the Buffs are having a poor record, with a 3-7 record constantly blinking on the scoreboard. With the home record, 3-3, and still yet to taste victory on the road, the Sanders is under heat. And Coach knows it. Promising a bright future, he stated, “You’ve got the right man, I promise you, you do.” All he is asking for is an opportunity and more time to prove it. And in that promise, AD George stands by him.

An individual on X wrote, “I believe him…but the seat is getting hotter. ” To which George had a fitting reply. “The seat is not hot. We believe in what is ahead for this program.” Back in 2022, he gave the Colorado reins to Sanders, entrusting him with the program’s future. Although challenges persist, he hasn’t given up on his head coach.