Colorado could receive Ezra Christensen eligibility ruling this week

Colorado football could get a long-awaited answer on Ezra Christensen's eligibility before the end of the week.

Attorney Darren Heitner said a written order is expected following last week's preliminary injunction hearing in Boulder. The judge took Christensen's case under advisement after reviewing arguments and legal precedent submitted by both sides. Christensen is seeking an injunction that would allow him to play during the 2026 season while his lawsuit against the NCAA moves forward.

The 6-foot-2, 280-pound defensive lineman transferred to Colorado after a breakout year at New Mexico State. Christensen finished 2025 with 42 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, six sacks and a forced fumble, earning first-team All-Conference USA recognition. His availability could alter the narrative about Colorado's defensive line that needs more proven interior disruption. As of now, Tulane transfer Santana Hopper is the main force inside, with Appalachian transfer Dylan Manuel adding depth.

The NCAA canceled Christensen's waiver for a fifth season after initially clearing his transfer. His legal team argues the decision failed to account for his unusual path to college football, including his childhood in Sierra Leone, adoption at age 16 and the loss of his final high school season during the COVID-19 pandemic.

"The NCAA canceled his waiver without ever engaging with a single one of those facts," Heitner wrote when the lawsuit was filed. "Ezra can't wait any longer."

If Christensen is cleared, Colorado gets one of its most accomplished transfer additions for Chris Marve's defense. If not, the Buffs will have to lean more heavily on interior options such as Samu Taumanupepe and Sedrick Smith in addition to Hooper and Manuel. CU opens the season Sept. 3 against Georgia Tech.

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This article originally appeared on Buffaloes Wire: Colorado could receive Ezra Christensen eligibility ruling this week