The Colorado Buffaloes were dealt a major blow Monday when a Boulder county court denied defensive tackle Ezra Christensen's motion for a preliminary injunction, which would have granted him eligibility for the 2026 season.
Christensen's legal battle was a drawn-out process that included multiple waivers and ultimately a failed injunction. According to the denial's legal documents, Christensen's case did not meet all of the six factors the court used in deciding on the injunction.
Christensen's attorney, Darren Heitner, posted on social media confirming the denial and that his team is looking into filing an emergency motion for reconsideration. Even if that step is taken, there is no guarantee that his original motion will pass.
It's official, Ezra's case has been denied and the written motion online is accurate. Here is his lawyer saying their next steps! The documents are found in the tweet attached to this! https://t.co/OKH877TNaa
— Buffs News Weekly (@BuffsNewsWeekly) August 24, 2026 For now, Christensen is left in a difficult spot with no good options left at his disposal, and most NFL opportunities are closed off until next year.
What does it mean for Colorado football?
For the Buffs, they are now down a huge presence along the defensive line and a player they expected to be an experienced starter. Without Christensen, defensive coordinator Chris Marve will turn to Tulane transfer Santana Hopper and Appalachian State transfer Dylan Manuel to be highly productive interior defenders.
Colorado opens the season on Sept. 3 against Georgia Tech in Atlanta.
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This article originally appeared on Buffaloes Wire: Colorado DT Ezra Christensen denied eligibility for the 2026 season