The Gophers football program is buzzing with fresh energy as 36 new players, including transfers and true freshmen, join the squad for spring ball. The team opened its third session, and first in pads, to reporters and high school coaches at the U’s indoor facility, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting lead-up to the spring game on April 25 at Huntington Bank Stadium.
Let’s dive into 11 key takeaways from Saturday's practice:
- Offensive fireworks were on display when Cincinnati transfer receiver Noah Jennings snagged a 40-yard touchdown pass from redshirt sophomore quarterback Drake Lindsey. Standing at 6 feet and 190 pounds, Jennings showed off his ability to make contested catches, a skill the Gophers sorely missed last season.
- On the defensive side, California transfer defensive end T.J. Bush made a significant impact with a QB pressure that earned praise from head coach P.J.
Fleck and defensive coordinator Danny Collins. Bush, known for his relentless play, tallied 91 pressures during his time at Cal and Liberty, and he’s already making his presence felt in Minnesota.
- The battle for the right tackle position is heating up between redshirt freshman Daniel Shipp and Tennessee transfer Bennett Warren. Shipp surprisingly took more reps with the first team, stepping into a role previously held by senior Dylan Ray.
- Introducing the orange “juice jersey,” a new motivational tool for the hardest-working players each session. This idea, brought by assistant defensive line coach Travis Moore, saw linebacker Maverick Baranowski and tight end Pierce Walsh donning the No. 1 shirts on Saturday.
- Auburn transfer receiver Perry Thompson received some coaching from offensive coordinator Greg Harbaugh, emphasizing the need for more effort in drills. At 6-3 and 210 pounds, Thompson is an exciting addition to the Gophers’ roster.
- Lindsey, along with running back Darius Taylor and others, is working with a chef arranged by the team nutritionalist. Lindsey, who appears leaner this spring, noted the benefits of this program.
- Safety Kerry Brown has bulked up since last season. The junior, who earned all-Big Ten honorable mention honors in 2025, will be crucial in the defense following Koi Perich's transfer to Oregon.
- Lindsey is focused on becoming a more poised player in his second season as QB1. Reflecting on last year’s pivotal Week 4 performance, he’s aiming to build on that momentum.
- The kicker competition is intense between senior Michigan transfer Beckham Sunderland and redshirt freshman Daniel Jackson. With practice periods dedicated to this battle, head coach P.J. Fleck emphasized the importance of finding a kicker with a powerful leg.
- With Za’Quan Bryan transferring to South Florida, Michigan State transfer Aydan West is stepping up as the No. 2 cornerback behind John Nestor. West is recognized as one of the fastest players on the team.
- Several players missed practice due to injuries, including guard Greg Johnson, running back A.J. Turner, and safety Aidan Gousby, among others.
The Gophers are setting the stage for an exciting season, with new talents and fierce competition driving the team forward. Keep an eye on these developments as they gear up for the spring game and beyond.