Meet Johnnie Mack: Deion Sanders’ New Running Backs Coach

The Colorado Buffaloes have promoted Johnnie Mack to running backs coach this offseason. A behind-the-scenes video on Colorado’s YouTube channel showed him working his group during spring practice.

Early impressions and role

Mack introduced himself to the roster and spoke about his excitement for the role. He served as an offensive analyst for Colorado in 2025 before the promotion.

Playing and coaching background

Meet Johnnie Mack, a former Texas Tech running back from the early 2000s. He totaled 636 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns across the 2003 and 2004 seasons. Mack also handled primary kick return duties during that period.

He began a full-time coaching path after his playing days. Mack joined Southeastern University in 2020 and filled multiple roles on offense, special teams, and strength and conditioning. He later worked with the Hawaii program as a quality control coach and wide receivers coach. Earlier stops included Houston Baptist, North Texas, SMU, and East Central.

Working with Coach Prime and Marshall Faulk

Working for Deion Sanders had long been a goal for Mack. He was on Sanders’ staff in 2025 and also worked alongside Marshall Faulk that season.

Faulk left Colorado this offseason to accept the head coach job with the Southern Jaguars. With Faulk’s departure, the staff chose an internal hire and elevated Mack to running backs coach.

Marshall Faulk — career highlights

Team outlook

The Buffs finished 3-9 in 2025 and missed a bowl for the second time in three Coach Prime seasons. Colorado opens 2026 on the road at Georgia Tech on Thursday, Sept. 3.

Georgia Tech beat Colorado at Folsom Field last season, 27-20. The Buffaloes will look for a turnaround under Sanders and their new running backs coach.

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