5 players with the most to gain at Gophers' fall camp

Published in Health and Fitness on Saturday, August 2nd 2025 at 22:21 GMT by Sports Illustrated
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Minnesota has some roles and positions battles that remain wide open for its 2025 roster.

5 Players with the Most to Gain at Gophers Fall Camp

As the Minnesota Golden Gophers gear up for another season in the competitive Big Ten Conference, fall camp represents a critical juncture for the team. This annual preseason ritual isn't just about shaking off the rust from summer workouts or fine-tuning plays; it's a high-stakes proving ground where players can solidify their roles, challenge for starting positions, or even elevate their profiles for future opportunities, including the NFL Draft. Under head coach P.J. Fleck, the Gophers have built a reputation for developing talent through gritty, blue-collar efforts, and this year's camp is no exception. With a roster blending experienced veterans and eager newcomers, several players stand out as having the most to gain. These individuals could transform their trajectories based on their performances over the coming weeks, potentially turning question marks into exclamation points for the team's depth chart. In this analysis, we'll spotlight five such players, examining their backgrounds, current situations, and what a strong camp could mean for their immediate and long-term futures.

Starting with the offensive side, one player who could see his stock skyrocket is quarterback Max Brosmer. A transfer from New Hampshire, Brosmer brings a wealth of experience from the FCS level, where he showcased impressive arm talent and decision-making skills. Last season, he threw for over 3,000 yards and demonstrated poise under pressure, but stepping up to the Power Five stage presents a whole new challenge. At Minnesota, the quarterback room is in flux following the departure of key pieces, and Brosmer is vying for the starting nod against other contenders. Fall camp will be his audition to prove he can command Fleck's intricate offense, which emphasizes precision passing and quick reads. If Brosmer excels in live scrimmages, showing accuracy on deep balls and the ability to extend plays with his mobility, he could lock down the QB1 role. This would not only boost his confidence heading into the season opener but also position him as a potential dark horse for All-Big Ten honors. Beyond that, a dominant camp could attract NFL scouts' attention, as quarterbacks with his prototypical size and experience often climb draft boards with strong showings. Conversely, struggles could relegate him to a backup spot, stunting his development. For Brosmer, every rep in camp is an opportunity to rewrite his narrative from FCS standout to Big Ten star.

Shifting to the running back position, Darius Taylor emerges as another player with immense upside. As a true sophomore, Taylor burst onto the scene last year with flashes of brilliance, rushing for significant yardage in limited action and displaying a rare combination of speed, vision, and power. However, injuries hampered his freshman campaign, limiting his opportunities and leaving fans wondering about his full potential. Now fully healthy, fall camp is Taylor's chance to assert himself as the lead back in a committee that includes veterans like Bryce Williams. The Gophers' run-heavy scheme under Fleck relies on a workhorse who can grind out tough yards between the tackles while also breaking off explosive runs. Taylor's athleticism—highlighted by his track background—could shine in camp drills focused on agility and burst. If he consistently outperforms his peers in contact situations and demonstrates improved pass-blocking skills, he might secure the majority of carries, transforming the offense into a more dynamic unit. This elevation would not only enhance Minnesota's ground game, which has been a cornerstone of their success, but also put Taylor on the radar for postseason awards. Long-term, a breakout camp could accelerate his path to professional aspirations, as running backs who dominate early in their college careers often generate buzz. Taylor has the tools; camp is where he proves he can be the engine driving the Gophers' attack.

On the defensive front, edge rusher Jah Joyner is poised for a potential leap. Transferring in from a smaller program, Joyner has the physical attributes that scream "disruptor"—long arms, explosive first step, and relentless motor. In previous stops, he recorded notable sack totals and forced turnovers, but adapting to the Big Ten's physicality will test his mettle. Minnesota's defense, coordinated by Corey Hetherman, thrives on generating pressure without blitzing excessively, and Joyner could fill a void left by departing linemen. Fall camp will feature one-on-one pass-rush drills and team scrimmages where Joyner can showcase his bend around the edge and ability to set the tone against run-heavy offenses. A strong performance here could earn him a starting spot opposite established players, bolstering the Gophers' front seven and making them a tougher matchup for opponents like Michigan or Ohio State. For Joyner, the gains extend beyond the field; impressing in camp could lead to increased playing time, which is crucial for building a highlight reel that attracts pro interest. In an era where edge rushers are premium commodities, Joyner has a golden opportunity to transition from under-the-radar talent to a household name in Minneapolis.

Wide receiver Daniel Jackson also has much to prove and gain in fall camp. Entering his senior year, Jackson has been a reliable target for the Gophers, amassing solid receiving yards and touchdowns in recent seasons. However, with the team's passing game evolving, he needs to elevate from a complementary piece to a true No. 1 option. His route-running precision and sure hands make him a quarterback's best friend, but camp will challenge him to expand his repertoire—perhaps adding more yards after catch or winning contested catches downfield. Competing against a talented secondary in practice, Jackson can demonstrate leadership and consistency, potentially becoming the go-to guy in critical situations. If he dominates camp reps, it could lead to a featured role in the offense, boosting his stats and, by extension, his draft stock. Minnesota has produced NFL wideouts before, and Jackson's camp performance could be the catalyst for joining that list. Moreover, his veteran presence could mentor younger receivers, solidifying the position group overall.

Finally, rounding out the list is cornerback Justin Walley. As a junior, Walley has shown promise with timely interceptions and sticky coverage, but inconsistencies in technique have occasionally exposed him. The Big Ten is loaded with elite wideouts, so fall camp is Walley's platform to refine his skills against the Gophers' own talented pass-catchers. Drills emphasizing press coverage, ball skills, and recovery speed will be key. A standout camp could secure him as a lockdown corner, reducing the defense's vulnerabilities and allowing more aggressive scheming. For Walley, the personal gains are significant: building on his foundation could lead to All-Conference recognition and enhance his professional prospects, as NFL teams covet versatile defensive backs.

In summary, fall camp for the Minnesota Golden Gophers is more than preparation—it's a launchpad for players like Brosmer, Taylor, Joyner, Jackson, and Walley. Each has unique attributes and challenges, but their performances could reshape the team's fortunes and their own careers. As practices intensify, keep an eye on these five; their gains might just propel the Gophers to new heights in the upcoming season. (Word count: 1,048)

Read the Full Sports Illustrated Article at:
[ https://www.si.com/college/minnesota/gophers-football/5-players-with-the-most-to-gain-at-gophers-fall-camp ]

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5 players with the most to gain at Gophers' fall camp

5 Players with the Most to Gain at Gophers Fall Camp