Gophers head coach P.J. Fleck is treating the transfer portal like NFL free agency. After “drafting” players in the recruiting cycle, Minnesota is now adding experience to its roster. The Gophers swung for the fences and significantly improved their depth.
Fleck and his staff prioritized the defensive tackle position by adding transfers Nyles Pinckney (Clemson) and Val Martin (NC State). It was critical to find players who could control a gap and shed blocks. Additionally, Abilene Christian linebacker Jack Gibbens will provide the Gophers with much-needed experience and productivity.
On the offensive side of the ball, Minnesota wanted to bring in more explosive weapons. Texas A&M wide receiver Dylan Wright was one of the top wide receivers in the 2019 recruiting class. Wright is a big, physical target with excellent vertical playmaking ability. It will be fascinating to see what he can do under the instruction of wide receivers coach Matt Simon.
Last week, Minnesota also added Utah State transfer offensive lineman Karter Shaw. He started at right guard for the Aggies, but has the versatility to shift between every interior position. Shaw also played for Gophers co-offensive coordinator Mike Sanford Jr. when he was at Utah State in 2019.
What will each of these additions bring to Minnesota’s program? I joined Mark Rogers TV to recap the Gophers’ transfer portal haul:
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