Two Colorado transfers earn elite PFF defensive grades

Colorado football pulled in over 40 transfers this offseason and prioritized the defensive side of the ball, specifically the defensive line.

Two of those players were among the best at their positions last season, according to Pro Football Focus. New Mexico State transfer defensive lineman Ezra Christensen was the highest graded defensive tackle in 2025 with an 88.6 grade from PFF. Tulane transfer Santana Hopper also made PFF’s top 8 lists, coming in at No.3 with an 80.2 grade.

Hopper finished the 2025 season with 29 total tackles, 4.5 sacks and 10.5 tackles for loss. His 39 quarterback pressures in 2025 were the 2nd most among defensive tackles, showing that his place on PFF’s list is well earned.

Christensen almost did not join the Buffs after he had to apply for an eligibility waiver, but his presence along Colorado’s defensive line could be a game-changer. Christensen, similar to Hopper, was a menace in rushing the passer, racking up the most quarterback hurries (28) in the FCS by a defensive lineman.

Other players to make the list include former Buff Bishop Thomas, who produced a standout season with Georgia State before transferring to Oklahoma.

Christensen and Hopper give defensive coordinator Robert Livingston two more than capable three-down defensive tackles that can rush the passer and play the run at an elite level. Those are two traits that CU’s defense severely lacked in 2025.

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This article originally appeared on Buffaloes Wire: Colorado football’s Santana Hopper, Ezra Christensen make top PFF list

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