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 bolster 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 at the guard position. His 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. Before joining West Carolina, Ripert played at the junior college level for Kentucky Christian and Dodge City Community College. He redshirted his first year at West Carolina, leaving him with two years of eligibility. Besides Colorado,
Ripert has received offers from Marshall, Akron, Georgia State, and UTSA, with Colorado being his only Power 5 offer.
Why It's Important?
The recruitment of Manasseh Ripert is significant for Colorado as they aim to enhance their offensive line capabilities. Ripert's experience and versatility could provide the team with much-needed depth and flexibility in their lineup. His strong pass-blocking skills are particularly valuable in protecting the quarterback and improving the team's offensive performance. As Colorado competes in the Power 5 conferences, securing a player like Ripert could help them remain competitive against other top-tier teams. Additionally, being the only Power 5 school to offer Ripert a position highlights Colorado's proactive approach in the transfer portal, potentially setting a precedent for future recruitment strategies.
What's Next?
With the offer extended, Manasseh Ripert will need to decide whether to join Colorado or consider other offers from schools like Marshall, Akron, Georgia State, and UTSA. His decision will likely depend on factors such as playing time, development opportunities, and the overall fit with the team's culture and strategy. For Colorado, securing Ripert would be a step towards solidifying their offensive line, but they may continue to explore additional options in the transfer portal to further strengthen their roster. The team's coaching staff will likely focus on integrating new recruits and optimizing their lineup for the upcoming season.
