Report: Colorado RB Charlie Offerdahl retiring from football

Colorado running back Charlie Offerdahl is retiring from football due to concussions, Colorado beat writer Brian Howell reported Tuesday morning.

Offerdahl walked on to the program and earned a scholarship in head coach Deion Sanders‘ first season with Colorado in 2023. The Littleton, CO native recorded 61 career rushing attempts over the span of three seasons for 264 yards and one touchdown.

Colorado RB Charlie Offerdahl is retiring from football due to concussions. The Dakota Ridge HS grad came in as a walk-on and earned a scholarship in Coach Prime’s first year at CU. #cubuffs

— Brian Howell (@BrianHowell33) July 29, 2025

“I mean, it’s unbelievable,” Offerdahl said after receiving his scholarship. “You know, all the praise, all the glory to my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. You know, but I really just want to thank everybody, you know this organization. You know all of Colorado, coach Prime. It’s a blessing. I love it.”

As a member of the Class of 2021, Offerdahl was not ranked, according to the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies. He played his high school football at Littleton (Col.) Dakota Ridge.

“Teary, teary-eyed,” head coach Deion Sanders said when asked what the moment was like. “I mean I was in there boo-hooing like I was part of the family, which I feel like I’m part of the family.

“He was raised correctly, wonderful mother and father who supported him 100% of the way. His brother is gonna follow in his footsteps with his toughness, and physicality, and stick-to-itiveness. 4.0 student, honor roll student, Charlie is the prototype man. He’s a man.”

Offerdahl was phenomenal at Dakota Ridge, as he led the team to a 23-8 record with two JeffCo league titles and two state semifinal appearances. During his time there, he recorded 208 carries for 1,462 yards and 27 touchdowns along with 16 catches for 122 yards and one receiving score.

On3’s Nick Kosko contributed to this report.