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Warren Sapp Delivers Strong Message to Colorado’s Defensive Line

Originally posted on Heartland College Sports
By Joe Tillery | Last updated Aug 6, 2025 11:16 AM ET

Colorado defensive line coach Warren Sapp is making sure his group understands the urgency of the 2025 season.

Speaking with the media this week, Sapp shared that the realization hit him hard when head coach Deion Sanders asked the defensive line who would be seniors this fall, and nearly every player raised a hand.

“My God, I need to start recruiting,” Sapp said with a laugh, acknowledging that the clock is ticking on this veteran unit. The former NFL Hall of Famer has been tasked with maximizing a group heavy on experience and leadership, while also planning for the future.

"I really didn't know what I had in the room until Prime said, 'Who's a senior?' And they all raised their hand. I said, 'My God, I got to start recruiting!"

Warren Sapp talks the expectations he's setting early from his senior DL room pic.twitter.com/bFvPPYDik5
— Nikki Edwards (@nikkiedwardsss) August 5, 2025

Sapp emphasized a team-first mentality for his position group, telling reporters, “The lone wolf dies and only the pack survives. We are a pack on the DL. No lone wolves.” His message centered on communication, unity, and trust as the core values that will drive Colorado’s defensive front in 2025.

With so many upperclassmen, the Buffs’ defensive line is expected to be one of the most seasoned units in the Big 12. That experience could prove vital as Colorado navigates a schedule that includes conference powers Arizona State, Kansas State, Iowa State, and BYU. Sapp’s focus on chemistry is designed to help the group play faster and more disciplined in key moments.

Colorado’s defense made strides in 2024 but still struggled against the run in critical situations. Sapp’s challenge will be finding ways to turn veteran presence into consistent production. The coach’s energy and straight-shooting approach have already made an impact in Boulder, and players have responded to his style.

With a senior-heavy group and a coach who demands accountability, Colorado’s defensive line enters 2025 with both high expectations and a clear identity: work together, stay together, and win together.

This article first appeared on Heartland College Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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