What's Happening?
The University of Colorado's football team has extended an offer to Manasseh Ripert, a former offensive lineman from West Carolina Catamounts, as part of their strategy to strengthen their offensive line. Ripert, who stands 6-foot-4 and weighs 300 pounds, primarily played as a tackle during the 2025 season but also has experience as a guard. This versatility is seen as a valuable asset for the Buffaloes. In 2025, Ripert achieved a Pro Football Focus grade of 71.4, with a notable 75.0 in pass blocking. His journey began at Lakeland High School, followed by stints at Kentucky Christian and Dodge City Community College at the JUCO level. After redshirting in his first year at West Carolina, Ripert has two years of eligibility left. Besides Colorado,
he has received offers from Marshall, Akron, Georgia State, and UTSA, with Colorado being his only Power 5 offer so far.
Why It's Important?
The offer to Manasseh Ripert is significant for Colorado's football program as it seeks to bolster its offensive line, a critical component for any successful team. Ripert's ability to play multiple positions on the line provides the Buffaloes with flexibility and depth, which are crucial for adapting to injuries and tactical changes during the season. His high pass blocking grade indicates a strong potential to protect the quarterback, a key factor in offensive success. For Ripert, joining a Power 5 conference team like Colorado represents a major step up in competition and exposure, potentially enhancing his prospects for a professional career. This move also reflects the increasing importance of the transfer portal in college sports, allowing teams to quickly address roster needs and players to find new opportunities.
What's Next?
As the transfer portal remains open, Colorado will likely continue to evaluate and pursue additional talent to strengthen their roster. For Ripert, the decision to join Colorado or another program will involve considering factors such as playing time, coaching, and development opportunities. The Buffaloes' coaching staff will aim to integrate new players like Ripert into their system, preparing for the upcoming season. Other schools that have offered Ripert may also intensify their recruitment efforts, highlighting the competitive nature of college football recruiting.
