“Just to Play With Shedeur [Sanders]”: Caleb Williams’ WR Teammate Gets Real on Missed Opportunity to Join Deion’s ‘Prime Effect’

When Deion Sanders arrived in Colorado in December 2022 as the new HC, nobody expected him to make such a transformation that would transcend beyond the college football scene. Not only did he improve the Buffs’ previous 1-11 record to 4-8, but he brought hype to Colorado with the Prime Effect that was once even impossible to imagine. 

The arrival of Coach Prime from Jackson State changed the cultural landscape of Colorado where he gave hope to the black community with his power and influence. Not only that, he boosted Colorado’s business, improved its social status, and even sold out all the games in the 2023 season. And just like everyone else, Brenden Rice didn’t know any better that Coach Prime would become a force in Boulder. 

Brenden Rice wishes he knew about Coach Prime’s effect in Boulder

Brenden Rice is a Colorado product who played with the Buffs for two seasons in 2020 and 2021 before transferring to USC on January 18, 2022. After his decision and the arrival of Deion Sanders and Shedeur Sanders in Boulder, he’s not hiding his regret as is revealed in his interview with Keyshawn Johnson’s All Facts No Brakes YouTube channel. This is what Rice said on whether he would’ve remained in Colorado if Deion Sanders was already there impacting the culture with the Prime Effect. “I think I would definitely have been at Colorado just to play with Shedeur. I think he’s a legendary quarterback.”

Brenden Rice isn’t hiding how impressed he is with Deion Sanders’ cultural impact in Colorado. But the Second-team All-Pac-12 winner also lauds Shedeur Sanders as a capable QB despite playing two seasons with Caleb Williams who is projected as the top overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. And the way he made his QB look good at USC’s pro day while also showcasing his talents just proves how much of a sportsmanship quality he holds. 

Brenden Rice displayed pure talent at USC’s pro day

During USC’s pro day, Brenden Rice stole the NFL personnel’s attention with an impressive leaping catch from Caleb Williams after running a seam route up the middle. This action not only showcased his ability at catching but also accentuated his QB’s throwing credibility. With his performance, his NFL Draft stocks considerably rose as he’s now projected to be a Day 2 selection.

READ MORE: “Hit Him”: Coach Prime Calls Out Son Shilo Sanders & Co. During Final Practice Before Spring Break

Rice finished last season with the Trojans with 45 catches for 791 receiving yards. He scored 12 TD receptions and secured an impressive 77.8 grade by Pro Football Focus. Right now, as per some mock drafts, he is expected to be picked in the 3rd round at around 84th pick. With the NFL Draft set to kick off on April 25, suspense is in the air as speculations currently run high.

READ MORE: Caleb Williams’ Draft Stocks Take a Hit After NBA Legend’s Unpopular Take on Shedeur Sanders