There's a youth movement happening in Colorado, perhaps flying a bit under the radar on the national stage. In addition to acquiring a number of young talents from within the league, including Jonathan Lewis and Auston Trusty, the Rapids have a few academy graduates making waves.
Left back Sam Vines won the starting role in 2019 and the 19-year-old even made his national team debut. Sebastian Anderson made his MLS debut at age 16 last season. But perhaps the crown jewel of the current crop of academy talent in the first team is central midfielder Cole Bassett.