Unranked, overlooked and undersized as a defensive back coming out of Manor High School (TX), Naeten Mitchell had a journey to make it to Colorado. One that was ultimately a full-circle moment.
As one of the many players joining the Buffs from a “lower level” of play, Mitchell has spent his previous three seasons at FBS program New Mexico State. After redshirting in 2023, he’d play in nine games in 2024, still yet to see the field as a starter.
His first opportunity to make a name would come at a new position, a decision made by safeties coach Henry Fernandez.
“He really believed in me that I could play free safety,” Mitchell told BuffStampede.com. “He moved me there last year, and I feel like a big reason for me getting here was that he showed people I could play. I just thank him a tremendous amount for putting me there and letting me have that position.”
That move would pay off in a big way, leading to Mitchell’s breakout season in 2025. He recorded 93 tackles, six pass breakups, four forced fumbles and three interceptions en route to Second Team All-Conference USA honors.
Taking a leap of faith and putting trust in his ability, he entered the transfer portal.
“My parents, they've been who stuck with me throughout my whole life. They believed in me when nobody else did,” Mitchell said. “Before I didn't have any offers coming out of high school, they still believed in me, and they told me to take a chance.”
Leaving New Mexico wasn’t a decision made in bad blood. After putting his all into the program, it was time for Mitchell to spread his wings and take on a bigger challenge. He felt a calling somewhere else.
“I wanted to get my way up the levels, and I knew where I could get to,” Mitchell said. “I eventually got here, and this has been a blessing. I worked my tail off to get here. It's been a long three years, but I can't wait to go out there and work.”
Landing at Colorado seemed like a faded opportunity until it became a reality. It wasn't the first time he had been to Boulder or wanted to play in the Black and Gold. Perhaps it was fate.
“I visited here my junior year. I didn't end up getting an offer. But being able to find my way back in a different situation, I just can't wait to go out there,” Mitchell said. “Being able to have my last name on the back of the Colorado Buffaloes jersey. It's just amazing; it's surreal.”
Since that visit, the team has been rebranded with the arrival of Deion “Coach Prime” Sanders. The national spotlight and attention in Boulder was just another reason for Mitchell to decide on CU. The defensive back connection was real.
“I'm trying to get to the NFL. That's my end goal. That's my dream,” Mitchell said. “I believe with this coaching staff, and with this team and with this conference, I can put myself in a great spot to be in the limelight. So that's what I'm working for, and I pray to God that I can make it there.”
This season, the safeties will be coached by NFL veteran Vonn Bell, who is in his first year in the role. That relationship development will be key for maximizing his success as a Buff.
In defensive coordinator Chris Marve’s 4-3-4 scheme, Mitchell will be playing alongside another safety (Randon Fontenette/Ben Finneseth) and help cover the back end of the secondary.
Having matured into a 5-foot-10 and 175-pound frame, his work ethic shows in his skills.
“I bring versatility and a playmaker (to the defense),” Mitchell said. “I feel like I have good speed and I can cover; I can play in the post, I can do a lot of things. I think just being able to fly around the field and help my team win, that's all I'm ready for.”
However, Mitchell has still been navigating through the adjustment into a Power 4 program. The strength and conditioning, complexity and roster depth are a complete step up in practice and against other teams.
“There's a lot of people, there's a lot of competition. That's the biggest thing; that's why I came to the Big 12,” Mitchel said. “I wanted to go against the best athletes in football. So being able to learn from everybody and just buy in, it's been great.”
Defying the odds and already having the collegiate accolades that he does would be enough for a good story. But that is not enough for Mitchell. Joining the 3-9 Buffs, he recognizes the challenge of turning the team around.
Regardless of the outside noise, he is focused on having the best year possible.
I know there's a lot of people talking about what this season could be or could not be, you know, it's all up to the media,” Mitchell said. we've putting a lot of work in since January. We've been trying to buy in and build relationships.
“It's going to be a great season. Hopefully ya’ll are excited. Get your popcorn ready, 'cause we're getting ready,” Mitchell said.
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