Colorado Defensive End Toby Anene Speaks on Transfer Portal Decision

Anene cites desire to play on a 'bigger stage' as key factor in move to Colorado

Mar. 30, 2026 at 6:35pm

An abstract, cubist painting depicting a football defensive line, with sharp geometric shapes and planes in the colors of Colorado and North Dakota State uniforms blending together in a dynamic, fragmented composition.Anene's transfer to Colorado adds experience and production to a defensive line in need of a boost.Wiggins Today

Defensive end Toby Anene has transferred to the Colorado Buffaloes for his final season of college football, citing the opportunity to play on a 'bigger stage' and chase his NFL dreams as the main reasons behind the move. Anene, who spent the previous three seasons at North Dakota State, is expected to be a key addition to a Colorado defensive line that struggled mightily in 2025.

Why it matters

The Colorado defense, especially the defensive line, was a major weakness in 2025, ranking near the bottom nationally in both rushing defense and sack production. Head coach Deion Sanders has made improving the trenches a priority, and the addition of experienced and productive players like Anene could be a major boost as the Buffaloes look to turn things around in 2026.

The details

Anene, who totaled 59 tackles, 14 tackles for loss, 10.5 sacks, 10 pass deflections, five forced fumbles, and one fumble recovery in his three seasons at North Dakota State, said Colorado's coaching staff made him a priority in the transfer portal and treated him well, leading to his decision to join the program. The Buffaloes have also added several other defensive linemen through the portal, including Ezra Christensen, Tyler Moore, and Domata Peko Jr., as they look to overhaul the unit under new defensive coordinator Chris Marve.

  • Anene played the last three seasons at North Dakota State.
  • Anene announced his transfer to Colorado in March 2026.

The players

Toby Anene

A defensive end who spent the last three seasons at North Dakota State and has transferred to Colorado for his final year of college football.

Deion Sanders

The head coach of the Colorado Buffaloes, who has made improving the defensive line a priority this offseason.

Chris Marve

The new defensive coordinator for the Colorado Buffaloes, who emphasizes versatility and speed on the defensive front.

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What they’re saying

“I just wanted to play on a bigger stage. As this is my final year to try to get to the NFL. I just felt like Colorado is the best place for me to do that. I got in the portal, they showed me love, they treated me as a priority, and I'm glad I made my decision.”

— Toby Anene, Defensive End

What’s next

As the spring game approaches, Anene will have a chance to show why he deserves to be a starter or at least be in the rotation on the Colorado defensive line.

The takeaway

Anene's transfer to Colorado represents a key addition to a defensive line unit that was a major weakness for the Buffaloes in 2025. His experience and production at the FCS level suggest he could be a difference-maker, and his stated desire to play on a 'bigger stage' and chase his NFL dreams aligns with Colorado's goals of turning the program around under Deion Sanders.