After a 26-year high school football run, Josh Niblett had finally made his way to college football as Colorado’s tight ends coach. However, it isn’t anything he’s doing on the field that has gotten his players to trust his coaching.
“[It’s] the way he leads with faith. He sends us a bible verse every morning,” tight end Zach Atkins told BuffStampede.com. “He’s very spiritually aligned, and that’s something that I’ve been working on growing my relationship with. He’s helped me do that.”
Atkins, being one of the few returning leaders from the 2025 squad, has put an emphasis on connecting with his new coach since his arrival in January. Strengthening the chemistry amongst the group has been a big change from a year ago.
What may seem like a simple act, the messages to the tight ends group chat have been well recieved across the board. A daily reminder that their coach is thinking of them, and encouraging their faith.
“That’s my guy. He’s family at this point. The way he checks up on me, the way he cares about me and the rest of the team, is unbelievable,” Atkins said. “I really haven't experienced that kind of love, and that kind of personal connection with a coach before.”
As a former high school head coach Niblett also carries six state titles on his resume. The knowledge of scheme paired with his ability to connect with the younger generation have separated him as a coach.
“He’s one of the best people I’ve been around off the field, on the field and he’s a great role model for me and for every other tight end in the room,” Atkins said.
Although Atkins may be the voice of the room, he wasn’t the only one to acknowledge Niblett’s personability. Northern Colorado transfer tight end Fisher Clements also sung his coaches praises during spring ball.
“You talk about that excellence [coaches] hold us to. He does that, and you're able to maintain that because of the fire he lights underneath you,” Clements said. “Just the passion that he coaches with, it’s unlike anything I've ever played for. I love it, and I'm thankful for it.”
With Niblett now at the helm of the group, the standard as been redeveloped for the 2026 season. A new sense of trust and comfort has sparked new energy for the unit’s potential.
“Ever since last season ended we shifted our mindset,” Atkins said. “We’ve all been super focused on what our goals are. I’m really excited with the progress from everyone.”
Players Mentioned
Coaches Mentioned
