The Minnesota Gophers are once again in the market for a running backs coach. Jayden Everett is heading east to take the same position at Wisconsin, according to sources familiar with the move.
Everett’s time in Minneapolis was brief-just one season-but it came during a transitional period for the Gophers’ backfield. He stepped in after Nic McKissic-Luke departed for the NFL, joining the New York Jets last offseason. Everett took over a young but promising position group, headlined by standout junior Darius Taylor.
Taylor showed flashes of star potential throughout the season, but the unit wasn’t without its challenges. Redshirt freshman Fame Ijeboi, who was expected to be a key piece in the rotation, entered the transfer portal in early December, leaving the backfield thin heading into the offseason.
Everett’s departure adds to a growing list of vacancies on P.J. Fleck’s staff.
Minnesota is also looking to fill two other assistant roles-special teams coordinator and outside linebackers/nickelbacks coach. The latter opened up when Kevin Kane left in December to take over as Purdue’s defensive coordinator.
With multiple key coaching positions now open, this becomes an important stretch for the Gophers as they look to stabilize their staff and set the tone for 2026. The next hires will be crucial-not just for recruiting, but for maintaining continuity and development across both sides of the ball.