Five Minnesota Gophers Enter NCAA Transfer Portal Ahead of Bowl Practice

The Minnesota Golden Gophers are set for a significant shift as five players have announced their intentions to enter the NCAA transfer portal. This movement comes shortly after the program secured its high school recruiting class on December 6, 2023, and as the team prepares for its first bowl practice on December 7.

The transfer portal is a critical opportunity for student-athletes seeking new opportunities, and this offseason, it will be open from January 2 to January 16. While the Gophers have experienced a strong retention rate over the past two years, only losing a few key players during that time, the upcoming weeks will reveal how many more may choose to leave the program.

Among those leaving is quarterback Jackson Kollock, who confirmed his decision on December 6. The true freshman from Laguna Beach, California, served as a member of the scout team this season, earning recognition as the scout team player of the week multiple times. Gophers head coach P.J. Fleck had expressed hope that Kollock would continue his development in Minnesota, but with Drake Lindsey solidifying his role as the starting quarterback, Kollock has opted to explore opportunities elsewhere for the remaining four years of his eligibility.

In addition to Kollock, reserve receiver Kenric Lanier has also stated his intention to depart. The redshirt sophomore from Decatur, Georgia, participated in 20 games, recording three receptions for 79 yards during the 2025 season.

Another player, Quintin Redding, a backup receiver and return specialist, announced his decision to leave the program on December 5. The senior from Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin, has played in 34 games for Minnesota, contributing a total of 36 kick returns for 758 yards and 22 punt returns for 166 yards since 2022. Redding’s playing time diminished with the arrival of Koi Perich, prompting his move to the transfer portal.

Backup offensive lineman Reese Tripp has also declared his intention to leave. The redshirt sophomore from Mantorville, Minnesota, participated in only three games at Minnesota, not appearing in the 2025 season.

Finally, punter Caleb McGrath has opted to seek a new program for his final two years of eligibility. The Apple Valley native and Eastview High School graduate did not see any game action during his time with the Gophers. Current punter Tom Weston has two years of eligibility remaining, potentially impacting McGrath’s decision.

As the transfer portal window approaches, the Golden Gophers will be closely monitored for further developments. With key players making transitions, the program faces a pivotal moment in shaping its roster for the future.