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Minnesota Golden Gophers Pro Day

A look at some players from the local college team as they prepare for Draft Day.

By now a lot are knee deep in mock drafts, analyzing pro days from around the country, and building big boards. Minnesota has had a few success stories over the last several years, 2018 could be the start of the next homegrown hero...

Steven Richardson - 6`0 - DL

Arguably the most impressive of the bunch, Richardson is a force on the defensive line. He tallied 12.5 sacks ,and 28.5 tackles for loss in his four year career. His size will be criticized, but he makes up for it with his strength, and pass rushing ability. Richardson could gain a lot of attention, and move up some draft boards with a solid pro day.

Jonathon Celestin - 6`1 - LB

A leader for the Gophers defense, Celestin notched a career high of 55 total tackles in 2017. Celestin received the Carl Eller award, given to the Gophers most outstanding defensive player year to year. Celestin had a notable interception returned for a touchdown, and showed his instincts play after play. He is likely a late round pick, but could bolster the depth of a team, and provide special team experience.

Kunle Ayinde - 6`0 - DB

The Gophers swiss army knife in the secondary, Ayinde played Safety, Nickel, and Corner throughout his career. Ayinde played on all special teams units, but saw a lot of playing time in his sophomore and senior years. He had a crucial interception in the Gophers bowl game against Washington state in 2016, and tallied 14 pass break ups in his career.

Duke McGhee - 6`1 - DB

Duke McGhee is the definition of hard hitting safety. He provided ample run support, and was a great tackler finishing his career with 89 solo tackles. Mcghee’s size, and frame is prototypical for his position, and he could turn some heads with his verocity to hit the ball carrier.

Other Names to watch: Kobe McCray (RB), Nate Wozniak (TE), Merrick Jackson (DL), Vincent Calhoun (OL), Garrison Wright(OL), Damon Gibson (WR), Adonis Brown (DB), Jackson Hull (TE).