As NFL teams ramp up offseason programs and minicamps, it’s the perfect time to check in on former Gopher football players making noise in professional leagues. From rising stars to undrafted free agents looking to carve out roster spots, the University of Minnesota’s footprint across the NFL continues to expand. This year’s list of Gophers in the league reflects both the growing talent pipeline under P.J. Fleck, a sweet bonanza of pro players.
A Strong Run of Success
Over the past five NFL Draft cycles, Minnesota has seen its profile rise steadily. Players like Antoine Winfield Jr., Blake Cashman, and Boye Mafe have not only stuck around in the league but are now producing at a high level. Winfield Jr. was named First-Team All-Pro for the 2023 season and remains one of the league’s premier safeties with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Cashman signed a free agent deal with the hometown Minnesota Vikings after a career-best season with the Texans, and Mafe has developed into a disruptive edge rusher for the Seattle Seahawks.
Meanwhile, younger players like John Michael Schmitz Jr., who started 13 games as a rookie for the Giants at center, and Terrell Smith, who logged meaningful snaps in Chicago’s secondary, look poised to take big steps forward in Year 2. The NFL continues to recognize the high floor and competitive makeup of Gophers developed in Dinkytown.
A Promising 2025 Rookie Class
The 2025 NFL Draft class from Minnesota adds more depth and potential. Offensive tackle Airontae Ersery and wide receiver Daniel Jackson, both drafted by the Houston Texans, join a young, offensive-minded organization. Jackson in particular drew praise during rookie minicamp for his route-running polish and hands.
Cornerback Justin Walley (Indianapolis Colts) and linebacker Cody Lindenberg (Las Vegas Raiders) also bring physical, Big Ten-tested toughness to their respective defenses. One of the most intriguing additions? Quarterback Max Brosmer, who transferred to Minnesota for a single season from New Hampshire. He was picked up by the Vikings as a camp arm but has a real shot to impress if he can translate his intelligence and quick release to the NFL level.
Underdogs, Specialists, and Global Gophers
Beyond the NFL, Gopher alumni are leaving their mark in alternative leagues. Defensive tackle Kyler Baugh and offensive lineman Chuck Filiaga are contributing in the UFL, while Demry Croft, Shannon Brooks, and Chris Streveler are suiting up in the IFL and CFL, respectively. Drew Wolitarsky, a name Gopher fans fondly remember, continues to thrive as a wide receiver in the CFL with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats.
The Minnesota Identity in the NFL
What’s clear from the continued presence of Gophers in the league is that NFL teams trust Minnesota-developed players. They’re known for being coachable, physical, and resilient—traits that help them stick even when they’re drafted late or go undrafted altogether.
As the NFL season inches closer, Gopher fans can take pride in watching an increasingly deep roster of alumni compete at the highest level. Keep an eye on this group during training camp and preseason action, as several young players are in real position battles that could lead to Week 1 roles.
Gophers Currently in the NFL and Other Pro Leagues (as of June 2025)
NFL Rostered Players:
- Rashod Bateman, WR – Ravens
- Blake Cashman, LB – Vikings
- Daniel Faalele, OT – Ravens
- Jack Gibbons, LB – Patriots
- Jordan Howden, S – Saints
- Tyler Johnson, WR – Jets
- Ko Kieft, TE – Buccaneers
- Boye Mafe, LB – Seahawks
- Eric Murray, S – Jaguars
- Tyler Nubin, S – Giants
- Esezi Otomewo, DE – Steelers
- John Michael Schmitz Jr., C – Giants
- Terrell Smith, CB – Bears
- Benjamin St-Juste, CB – Chargers
- Brevyn Spann-Ford, TE – Cowboys
- Antoine Winfield Jr., S – Buccaneers
- Chris Collins, LB – Chargers
- Corey Crooms, WR – Cowboys
2025 Rookies (Drafted or Signed):
- Airontae Ersery, OT – Texans
- Justin Walley, CB – Colts
- Cody Lindenberg, LB – Raiders
- Daniel Jackson, WR – Texans
- Max Brosmer, QB – Vikings
- Danny Striggow, LB – Jaguars
- Jah Joyner, DE – Raiders
Other Leagues:
- Kyler Baugh, DT – St. Louis Battlehawks (UFL)
- Chuck Filiaga, OL – San Antonio Brahmas (UFL)
- Shannon Brooks, RB – Arizona Rattlers (IFL)
- Demry Croft, QB – Quad City Steamwheelers (IFL)
- Chris Streveler, QB – Winnipeg Blue Bombers (CFL)
- Drew Wolitarsky, WR – Hamilton Tiger-Cats (CFL)
Free Agents:
- De’Vondre Campbell, LB
- Carter Coughlin, LB
- Thomas Rush, LB
- Damien Wilson, LB
- Ryan Santoso, K