In a blow to the Colorado Buffaloes' offensive line, starting lineman Savion Washington has entered the transfer portal, leaving the team without their last returning starter from last season. The 6-foot-8 Washington, who started at right tackle for the first five games before an ankle injury, played a crucial role in an offensive line that ranked among the nation's worst.

Washington's return to the lineup later in the season provided a much-needed boost, as he started a total of 10 games and performed well despite struggling elsewhere along the line of scrimmage. However, his decision to transfer adds to the challenges faced by the Buffaloes, who have already lost two offensive line starters, Gerad Christian-Lichtenhan and Van Wells, to the transfer portal.

The departures of Christian-Lichtenhan and Wells saw them both sign with Oregon State during the winter transfer window. In an effort to compensate for the losses, Colorado has brought in five offensive linemen through transfers. However, head coach Deion Sanders may still be searching for additional options during the transfer portal window.

"I expect them to be active in going after offensive linemen in this portal window," stated Carl Reed from 247Sports.

Meanwhile, in another transfer portal development, Texas offensive tackle Payton Kirkland has also made the decision to enter the portal. A highly-regarded prospect out of Orlando, Florida, Kirkland earned a 4-star rating in the Class of 2023. Despite redshirting his first year on campus and not seeing any game time, Kirkland possesses an imposing frame at 6-foot-6 and 366 pounds, suggesting further potential for growth and development.

Based on his profile, experts suggest that in-state schools, such as the University of Florida and Florida State, could be potential landing spots for Kirkland, given the need for added offensive line reinforcements in the Sunshine State.

"The Sunshine State is not known for its big offensive line bodies. Florida needs help... I don't know if Payton Kirkland is quick enough to hang on the outside, but as an interior option, he'd help Florida," commented Andrew Ivins from 247Sports.

As the transfer portal continues to shape the college football landscape, Colorado and Florida will be closely monitoring the available options to address their respective offensive line challenges.