Colorado outside linebacker Derrick McLendon II has elected to forego his final season of eligibility and declare for the NFL Draft.

McLendon spent four seasons at Florida State before transferring to CU this past year. He had one bonus year of eligibility remaining that was granted to all players from 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic, but will instead pursue an opportunity in the NFL.

“The past five years of my collegiate experience have prepared me for this decision,” McLendon wrote on social media. “To the Buff and Seminole nation, I will cherish every moment that I created on Folsom Field and Bobby Bowden Field. These experiences helped build my integrity, sportsmanship, and pursuit of excellence.”

McLendon was not a starter for the Buffs, but did play in all 12 games. He posted 17 tackles, 1.5 sacks and two fumble recoveries.

McLendon was one of 14 players to be honored on senior day before the home finale on Nov. 11 against Arizona.

Hall of Famer Sapp hoping to join Buffs

CU head coach Deion Sanders has talked about bringing Pro Football Hall of Fame defensive lineman Warren Sapp to the Buffs’ staff. And, Sapp is working on making that happen.

In September, Sapp said on The Rich Eisen Show, “I’m going to go get my degree and I’m going to ask Prime for a spot on his staff.”

On Wednesday, during an interview with Thee Pregame Show, Sapp provided an update, hinting that he’s close to obtaining his degree.

“I’ve got a couple more screws to tighten down, a couple more things to finish and I should have something to hang on the wall,” said Sapp, who starred at the University of Miami from 1992-94.

“It’s gonna be on (Sanders) then. I’m gonna push the ball in his court. Whenever he gets the ball in his hand, I know what he’s gonna do with it. He’s taking it to the house.”

If Sapp, who doesn’t have coaching experience, does join the staff, it’s unclear what role he would have with the Buffs, but he would certainly work with defensive linemen in some capacity.

Sal Sunseri recently completed his first season as CU’s defensive line coach.It’s been rumored that Sunseri has been targeted for a role on Charlotte’s staff, but Sanders responded to a post on X on Wednesday that suggests Sunseri and Sapp will work together with the Buffs.

“We chose … Coach Sal in March my brother and stop listening to lies,” he wrote. “You know I’ve kept it 100 since 1989! We good by the way. SAPP & SAL are Straight.”