The University of Minnesota’s Golden Gophers are experiencing a significant shift as five players have announced their intentions to enter the NCAA transfer portal. This decision comes shortly after the program secured its high school recruiting class on November 29, 2023, and as preparations for the upcoming bowl game begin.
With the first bowl practice scheduled for December 7, attention now focuses on the players looking to transition to new opportunities. Historically, the Gophers have maintained one of the highest retention rates in college football, losing only a few key players annually to the transfer portal. However, this winter’s developments are set to alter the landscape of the team.
The NCAA transfer portal will open on January 2, 2024, and remain accessible until January 16, 2024. This offseason marks a change from the previous years when two transfer windows were available.
Player Departures from Minnesota
Among the players entering the portal is quarterback Jackson Kollock, a true freshman from Laguna Beach, California. Kollock spent the season on the scout team and earned accolades as the scout team player of the week multiple times. Although Gophers head coach P.J. Fleck expressed hope that Kollock would continue to develop within the program, the presence of established quarterback Drake Lindsey has prompted him to seek opportunities elsewhere.
Additionally, reserve receiver Kenric Lanier confirmed his plans to leave Minnesota. The redshirt sophomore from Decatur, Georgia, participated in 20 games, securing three receptions for 79 yards during the 2025 season. His exit adds to the Gophers’ growing list of departures.
On December 5, backup receiver and return specialist Quintin Redding also announced his decision to enter the portal. The senior from Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin, played in 34 games over his career at Minnesota, recording 36 kick returns for 758 yards and 22 punt returns for 166 yards. His playing time diminished following the arrival of new talent in the position.
Furthermore, backup offensive lineman Reese Tripp has declared his intention to leave the program. The redshirt sophomore from Mantorville, Minnesota, participated in only three games during his tenure and did not see action in the 2025 season. Rounding out the list of departures is punter Caleb McGrath, who has yet to play in a game for the Gophers. The Apple Valley native is looking for a new opportunity as he enters the transfer portal with two years of eligibility remaining.
As these athletes prepare for their next steps, the Gophers will need to address their roster dynamics ahead of the upcoming bowl game. The impact of these departures could shape the team’s coming season as they look to maintain their competitive edge in college football.
