Colorado Buffaloes, Illinois Add Multiple Transfer Linemen for 2024

The Colorado Buffaloes, under coach Deion Sanders, have strengthened their offensive line by adding Cooper Lovelace, a versatile 6-foot-5, 315-pound lineman who has experience at USC and Northwestern. Lovelace, who played 11 games in 2024 at Northwestern, provides valuable depth and flexibility at guard and tackle positions amid significant turnover on Colorado's offensive line. Meanwhile, the University of Illinois continues its extensive defensive line rebuild by acquiring Eli Coenen, a 6-foot-7, 275-pound defensive lineman from Division II Bemidji State, marking Illinois' fifth defensive line transfer this offseason. Coenen brings three years of eligibility and solid production from his previous season, joining a defensive front that has seen departures to the NFL and transfer portal. Illinois’ acquisition strategy includes a broad roster overhaul, bringing in multiple transfers across positions, signaling a comprehensive effort to enhance team depth and competitiveness. Both programs are leveraging the transfer portal to address key positional needs and build depth for the upcoming season.