Colorado State has a proud tradition of walk-ons having success, from the school's all-time leading rusher Steve Bartalo to former All-American Keli McGregor to former NFL safety John Howell. Walk-ons continue to fill roles as the Rams prepare for the 2012 football season, according to The Coloradoan.

On Tuesday, new coach Jim McElwain welcomed six new non-scholarship players to the roster, including JUCO transfer Calvin Tonga.

The report says it's not expected that any of the walk-ons will make the cut for the final 85 roster spots, but precedent is certainly there with the Rams to go from walk-on to team staple. Senior linebacker James Skelton, the team's second-leading tackler last season, also began his season as a walk-on.

The 27 walk-ons currently on the roster include backup quarterback M.J. McPeek and running back Mark Woodbury.

For more on the Buffs, visit Colorado blog Ralphie Report and join the discussion. Head over to SB Nation NCAA Football for more news and notes around the college football world.