Buffs Beat

Colorado Buffaloes' Chidozie Nwankwo Clears Up Transfer Portal Confusion

Former Colorado Buffaloes defensive tackle Chidozie Nwankwo responded to an inaccurate report stating he's entering the college football transfer portal. His younger brother, walk-on defensive lineman Chijioke Nwankwo, is reportedly leaving the Buffs for the portal.

Jack Carlough

Oct 19, 2024; Tucson, Arizona, USA; Colorado Buffalos defensive tackle Chidozie Nwankwo (97) against the Arizona Wildcats at Arizona Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Oct 19, 2024; Tucson, Arizona, USA; Colorado Buffalos defensive tackle Chidozie Nwankwo (97) against the Arizona Wildcats at Arizona Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images / Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
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In response to an inaccurate report, former Colorado Buffaloes defensive tackle Chidozie Nwankwo confirmed that he isn't entering the transfer portal and remains focused on the upcoming NFL Draft.

Mike Farrell Sports reported Wednesday that Nwankwo re-entered the portal as a graduate transfer despite declaring for the draft earlier this year. The confusion likely stemmed from Nwankwo's younger brother, Colorado walk-on defensive lineman Chijioke Nwankwo, instead entering the portal.

The elder Nwankwo took to X on Wednesday to confirm he's "no longer a college athlete."

Oct 19, 2024; Tucson, Arizona, USA; Colorado Buffalos defensive tackle Chidozie Nwankwo (97) against the Arizona Wildcats at
Oct 19, 2024; Tucson, Arizona, USA; Colorado Buffalos defensive tackle Chidozie Nwankwo (97) against the Arizona Wildcats at Arizona Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images / Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

During his lone season with the Buffs, Nwankwo started in 10 games and recorded 31 total tackles, 4.5 TFLs, 2.5 sacks and one forced fumble. He was named an All-Big 12 honorable mention player and was a Big 12 Defensive Lineman of the Year honorable mention.

Nwankwo spent his first four college seasons at Houston, starting in 33 games.

After declaring for the NFL Draft in early January, Nwankwo took part in the Hula Bowl, the Big 12 pro day and Colorado's pro day on April 4. The 5-foot-11, 290-pound senior impressed many at CU's pro day when he recorded 30 bench press reps. He also ran a 5.59-second 40-yard dash and measured a 28-inch vertical.

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Although Nwankwo's lack of size likely hurts his draft stock, his strong season at Colorado and well-documented strength may entice NFL teams on the undrafted free-agent market. Nwankwo even owns an endorsement from Colorado assistant coach and Pro Football Hall of Famer Warren Sapp.

"Chidozie in the middle? If you find a better nose tackle in America, let me see him," Sapp said in March.

As for the younger Nwankwo, Chijioke didn't see any game action as a true freshman this past season and ultimately took a redshirt. With four years of eligibility remaining, the 6-foot-2, 260-pound walk-on is likely looking for increased playing time at a lower-level college football program.

Chijioke thanked coach Deion Sanders and his Colorado staff while formally announcing his decision to enter the portal on Wednesday.

"To coach Deion Sanders: I will always be appreciative of you for bringing me into the family you have built," Chijioke wrote on X. "Along with everyone who played a part in my journey at the University of Colorado Boulder, thank you for welcoming me into the community."

The spring transfer portal window for non-graduate players opened on Wednesday and closes April 25. Other Buffs who've entered include running back Isaiah Augustave, safety Savion Riley, tight end Sam Hart and early enrollee wide receiver Adrian Wilson. This past weekend, Colorado earned commitments from Campbell transfer wide receiver Sincere Brown and Memphis transfer offensive lineman Xavier Hill.

While balancing the demands of the portal, "Coach Prime" and the Buffs will hold their annual Black and Gold Day spring football game on Saturday at Folsom Field.

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Jack Carlough
JACK CARLOUGH

Jack Carlough graduated from the University of Colorado with a degree in journalism and minors in business and sports media. Born and raised in the Boulder area, Jack was the head sports editor of the CU Independent during his college career. More recently, he spent over three years as the managing editor of Colorado Buffaloes Wire, part of the USA Today Sports network. Other publications Jack has written for include the Boulder Daily Camera, Left Hand Valley Courier and SB Nation’s Ralphie Report.

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