Colorado State head coach Jay Norvell’s praise for linebacker Owen Long began last fall and continued through spring ball and fall camp.

Through the first three games of the 2025 season, the sophomore from Whittier, Calif., has lived up to every positive statement made about him by his coach.

Last season, Long played in all 13 games for the Rams but didn’t make a start until the Snoop Dogg Arizona Bowl. He finished the season with 45 tackles.

The CSU coaching staff was already taking notice, which is why after the Rams had some defensive players enter the transfer portal before the bowl game, they felt Long was ready to start.

He has proven he was ready then and that he is ready now to lead the Rams’ defense.

“Owen has got a natural nose for the football,” Norvell said as the Rams pre

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