WATCH: Colorado football locker room erupts in celebrations as $45M worth HC Deion Sanders announces RB Charlie Offerdahl's scholarship news
In a heartwarming moment during Colorado's spring game, the highlight transcended the action on the field as walk-on running back Charlie Offerdahl received the surprise of a lifetime.
Worth $45 million (per Celebrity Net worth) Deion Sanders, in a touching gesture, officially awarded Offerdahl a scholarship, sparking jubilant celebrations in the locker room.
Sanders, visibly moved by the occasion, expressed his admiration for Offerdahl.
"Wow. Teary-eyed. I was in there boo-hooing like I was part of the family," Sanders said. "His brother is gonna follow in his footsteps with his toughness and physicality and stick-to-it-iveness -- 4.0 student, honor roll student. Charlie is the prototype, man. He’s a man. I love what he stands for, I love who he is, I love what he’s about."
Offerdahl worked hard to get here. When he first walked on, he helped the team. One year later, he set a Colorado record for walk-on rushing yards. He earned his initial start against UCLA last year.
Reflecting on his path, Offerdahl expressed gratitude to everyone in the organization and emphasized the importance of self-belief.
"I really just want to thank everybody in this organization, all of Colorado, Coach Prime -- it's a blessing," Offerdahl said. "The biggest thing for me is believing in myself. Over the course of being here, it's been a lot of trials and tribulations."
Journey of Charlie Offerdahl to his 'home' Colorado
Charlie Offerdahl's decision to join Colorado over smaller schools stemmed from his deep connection to the program and his faith in Coach Sanders.
"Colorado's home ... My family's here in Colorado, so that's a big part of it. I have faith in Coach Prime, I have faith in my ability," he said.
Charlie Offerdahl missed the spring game due to an injury. He called the coach a role model not just for sports skills but also for good values and ethics. Offerdahl was thankful for the chance and guidance from Coach Sanders.
"As a little kid, you dream to be him ... It's a blessing. I can't understate how much of a blessing it is for me," he said.
Charlie Offerdahl improved his special teams and backfield performance at Colorado from 2021 to 2023. As a freshman in 2022, he broke a school record for rushing yards by a walk-on with 150 yards in 12 games.
He impressed with 55 yards against Minnesota and a 36-yard reception against Arizona. The following season, he saw action in eight games, tallying 11 rushing yards against Nebraska and a tackle against UCLA. His debut in 2021 earned him the title of Special Teams Scout Player of the Year.