WASHINGTON (July 24, 2025) - Branden D. Bufford is a former three-year starter for the Howard University football team where he began his career as a walk-on before earning a scholarship and starting position for the Bison.
 
Bufford attributes his successes on and off the field to his coaches Ron Bolton, Terry Simms, Andre Creamer, Travis Coleman and James Moses. He also acknowledges his teammates Arlandus Hood, Rickey Jackson, Randell Means, Arnando Jamison and record-setting receiver Jarahn Williams for their influence, support and friendship while competing inside Greene Stadium at The Hilltop.
 
Bufford's commitment to community service is as strong as his dedication to sports. He was an active member of the Michigan State Club, a two-time participant in Howard University's Alternative Spring Break and a Spring 2009 initiate of the Alpha Tau Chapter of Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc.
 
In 2011, Bufford ended his undergraduate journey at Howard. Although his time on the field at Greene Stadium had concluded, he never put the ball down. He continued his athletic career as an undrafted free agent in Detroit where his love for the game grew. He took his talents to the Detroit Lions and the now-defunct Chicago Rush of the Arena Football League.
 
After retiring his jersey, Bufford completed his education at Wayne State University, graduating with a master's in education leadership.
 
He began his education career as a physical education teacher but soon transitioned from the classroom to higher education positions and a college and career position. Bufford currently works as a talent recruiter for KIPP Chicago Public Schools.
 
Before Howard, Bufford attended Cass Tech High School, a powerhouse program in Detroit, where he earned All-City and All-Performer titles in track and field, competing in the high and low hurdles.
 
Bufford is a second-generation educator and a third-generation landlord, acquiring and managing properties in Detroit.
 
Bufford currently calls Chicago home where he lives with his wife, Casey Bufford, and his two children, Taylor, 9, and Jabari, 4, who both respond correctly when you yell "H-U!"

About Where Are They Now?
 
The weekly series of "Where Are They Now?" appears on Thursdays throughout the year.
 
The series will feature former student-athletes from all sports and eras, highlighting their careers as athletes at the University and what they are presently doing.
 
All interested former athletes and their coaches should submit a short bio, a recent head shot and contact information on how they can be reached via email to Jade Spurlock (jade.spurlock@bison.howard.edu) and Derek W. Bryant (derek.bryant@howard.edu).
 
For more information, visit the Bison Athletics website at www.HUBison.com.