The comeback story being written by Evan Worthington keeps getting better.
A year ago, the Colorado safety was at home watching the Buffaloes. Dismissed from the team in January 2016, he had to work to earn his way back onto the team, which he did this past January.
While he was out, the former Cherokee Trail High School star, became a father.
Throughout spring and into preseason camp, Worthington vowed that he was more focused and mature than he was during his first two years at CU.
So far, he’s backing that up.
During Saturday’s 37-3 win against Texas State, Worthington had nine tackles, including two tackles for loss, and a pass breakup. He had eight tackles and an interception in the Buffs’ season-opening 17-3 win against Colorado State on Sept. 1.
“It feels great, being out here playing football again,” he said. “This is what I love doing. I just love coming out here doing what I’m supposed to be doing. It just feels amazing.”
The 6-foot-2, 210-pound Worthington is listed as a safety, but he’s really one of the most versatile players on the defense, as he can line up at Buff back or at nickel back.
Head coach Mike MacIntyre has compared Worthington’s versatility to that of former CU star Chidobe Awuzie.
“He’s that fast, that athletic,” MacIntyre said. “He’s not a corner like Chido could be, but he’s a nickel, safety, blitzer like Chido was. He’s a big add for us. I don’t think anybody saw that coming.”
Except for maybe MacIntyre.
“He’s always been like that, but he’s just gone to another level,” MacIntyre said. “Maturity is an interesting thing, isn’t it?”
Maturity is helping Worthington become a key part of a defense that has yet to allow a touchdown this season.
“I’ve just got that drive,” he said. “I’m just trying to do what I need to do. I just need to always be playing 100 percent. Can’t mess up.”
Contact staff writer Brian Howell at howellb@dailycamera.com or twitter.com/BrianHowell33.
