Gophers Secure 25 Verbal Commitments in 2026 Summer Splash Recruiting

The Minnesota Golden Gophers football team made significant progress in building their 2026 recruiting class during the recent 'Summer Splash' recruiting event, securing multiple high-profile commitments. Offensive tackles Mataalii Benjamin from Utah and Daniel McMorris from Oklahoma emerged as top recruits, each rated as three-star prospects with numerous Power Five offers, boosting the class’s national standing. Benjamin, ranked among the top offensive tackles nationally, chose Minnesota over programs like Oklahoma State and Nebraska, while McMorris also turned down several major offers, including Wisconsin and Stanford. The Gophers also added several defensive players, including cornerback Chance Payne and linebacker Angel Luciano III, contributing to a class now ranked around 17th nationally with at least 16 hard commitments. Coach P.J. Fleck’s staff has successfully attracted talent from various states, enhancing the team’s depth particularly along the offensive line with four tackles committed. Overall, the Gophers’ 2026 recruiting class is gaining momentum and is positioned well in both Big Ten and national rankings.