After establishing himself as one of the top offensive linemen in the Big Ten over three seasons with the Illinois Fighting Illini, Zy Crisler attracted significant attention when he entered the transfer portal in December.
The 6-foot-7, 340-pound graduate made visits to both Mississippi State and UCLA, but ultimately chose to commit to Deion Sanders and the Colorado Buffaloes on January 8. Crisler was drawn to Sanders’ vision for the program and the stunning scenery in Boulder.
“I love the view and the atmosphere here,” Crisler said. “Why not Colorado? Let’s go for it. Coach Prime is building something special. We’re all in and moving forward.”
Crisler began his college football journey at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College in 2021 before transferring to Illinois, where he appeared in 37 games and started 30. He earned All-Big Ten honorable mentions twice and was part of an offensive line that was a semifinalist for the 2022 Joe Moore Award, recognizing the nation’s best O-line.
Now at Colorado, Crisler is stepping into a leadership role alongside freshman standout Jordan Seaton.
“I’ve blended in well, and I think the guys see me as a leader now,” Crisler said. “I feel like we’re heading in the right direction.”
During his time at Illinois, Crisler primarily played right guard but occasionally lined up at right tackle. While Colorado’s offensive line configuration remains uncertain—except for the left tackle and possibly center (Cash Cleveland)—Crisler is confident in his flexibility.
“I’m comfortable wherever they need me,” he said. “I’m not trying to brag, but I’ll give everything I’ve got no matter where I’m placed. Inside, outside—it doesn’t matter. I’ll train hard and aim to dominate.”
With Phil Loadholt’s departure, the Buffs’ offensive line is now under the guidance of coaches Gunnar White, Andre Gurode, and George Hegamin. White was recently promoted from quality control, while Gurode and Hegamin bring 18 years of combined NFL experience.
“He’s exactly what we want in a player,” White said of Crisler. “He shows up, works hard, doesn’t talk much, and he’s powerful.”
The offensive line hasn’t been a strong point during the early Deion Sanders era, but with increased size and chemistry this spring, Crisler sees positive momentum.
“We’re rolling,” he said. “Everyone’s working together, and it’s going to be something to watch.”
Crisler and the Buffaloes are set to take the field at Folsom on April 19 for the Black and Gold Day spring game.
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