2027 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Ezra Christensen, DT, University of Colorado

• Name: Ezra Christensen
• Position: Defensive Tackle
• College: University of Colorado
• Height: 6’2″
• Weight: 285 lbs
• Twitter/X: ezrachristense5
• Instagram: christensen_ezra

What makes you a top prospect at your position in the 2027 NFL Draft?

I bring power, physicality, and a high motor to the defensive line. I take pride in being hard to move at the point of attack and making plays against both the run and the pass. I have worked extremely hard to get to this level, and I believe my strength, versatility, work ethic, and ability to learn quickly can translate to the next level.

Tell me about a time you faced adversity and how you responded.

My life has had a lot of challenges. I was born in Sierra Leone and spent part of my childhood in an orphanage before coming to America and eventually being adopted. I had to adjust to a completely different life and learn how to keep pushing forward even when things weren’t easy. Those experiences taught me to appreciate every opportunity I get and to never take anything for granted. I carry that mindset with me in everything I do.

What are your hobbies outside of football?

I enjoy playing guitar and fishing. Both give me a chance to relax and take my mind off football.

What role do you see yourself playing at the next level?

I see myself as a versatile defensive lineman who can play multiple positions along the front. I want to be someone coaches can trust on every down, especially against the run, while continuing to develop as a pass rusher. My goal is to earn my role through hard work and eventually become a reliable starter.

If you could donate to one cause, what would it be and why?

I would donate to organizations that help children without parents or stable homes. I spent part of my childhood in an orphanage, so I understand how much having someone believe in you can change a child’s life. I would want to give kids opportunities, education, and the support they need to build a better future.

How do you respond to coaching or criticism?

I listen and take coaching seriously. I don’t take criticism personally because I know coaches are trying to make me better. If I keep getting corrected on something, I take it as a sign that I need to put more work into that area. I would rather be corrected and improve than keep making the same mistake.

Who is the most underrated teammate at your school?

Quincy Wiggins. He does a lot of things that don’t always show up on the stat sheet. He bringsenergy every day, works hard, and makes the people around him better. Those are the types of teammates every team needs.

If you were benched, why do you think it would happen?

Probably because I wasn’t doing something the right way consistently enough. If a coach benches me, my first response would be to figure out what I need to improve instead of making excuses. I would ask questions, watch the film, and work until I earned the opportunity back.

What is your pre-game routine?

I like to keep my routine consistent. I get my body warmed up, listen to music, visualize my assignments, and go over my keys for the game. I try to stay calm and focused instead of getting too emotional. Once I get on the field, I lock in on my job and let everything else go.

What defensive scheme do you feel most comfortable in?

I feel comfortable in a multiple-front defense where I can play as a defensive tackle and use my size and strength to attack gaps. I also like having the ability to move around the front and create pressure instead of being limited to one role.

What would you do with your first NFL check?

I would take care of my family first. My success means more to me when the people who supported me can benefit from it too. After that, I would make sure I was being smart with my money and building something for the future rather than spending it just to spend it.

Tell me about a mistake you made and how you bounced back from it.

There have been games where I missed an assignment or didn’t play a technique the way I was coached. The biggest thing I’ve learned is that you can’t let one play turn into two or three. I correct the mistake, communicate with my teammates, and focus on the next snap. Defensive line is a position where you have to have a short memory.

If you could have dinner with three people, who would they be and why?

1. Aaron Donald — He played my position at an elite level, and I would want to learn about his mindset, preparation, and how he approached the game.
2. Kobe Bryant — I would want to learn from his mentality, discipline, and work ethic, especially how he pushed himself to keep getting better.
3. Cristiano Ronaldo — I would want to learn about his dedication, longevity, and commitment to staying at the highest level for so long.

What is your favorite snack?

Beef jerky.

What is your degree/major?

Interdisciplinary Studies.

What songs are you listening to right now?

1. “House Arrest”
2. “Ready for War”
3. “Proud of Me”

— YoungBoy Never Broke Again