In a busy week for college football, Minnesota signs five transfer players. In addition to bringing in several high school recruits, they’ve managed to shore up several positions with players who could bring an immediate (and needed) impact.
Minnesota Signs Transfer Players
Corey Crooms, WR (Western Michigan)
Tight ends’ coach Greg Harbaugh was the receivers’ coach at Western Michigan for Crooms’ first two years and knows him well. Primarily a slot receiver, Crooms caught 57 passes for 814 yards and five touchdowns this season and was named second-team All-MAC. He’s a guy who could play right away.
Elijah Spencer, WR (Charlotte)
In 2021, Spencer was named Conference USA’s Freshman of the Year. As a sophomore, he caught 57 balls for 943 yards and nine touchdowns. He’ll be competing with Daniel Jackson, Dylan Wright, and Chris Autman-Bell for playing time. At 6’2″ and 190 pounds, he provides another solid option on the outside for Athan Kaliakmanis.
Ryan Selig, LB (Western Michigan)
The Gophers snagged another Bronco out of the portal in signing Selig. A two-year starter at linebacker, the converted tight end made 73 tackles (5.5 TFL) this season. He also had 1.5 sacks, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery. He’s a strong candidate to replace the graduating Mariano Sori-Marin.
Jack Henderson, DB (Southeastern)
Henderson is another guy who could contribute early, with nickel back Michael Dixon transferring and strong safety Jordan Howden graduating. He was named first-team All-Southland Conference with 90 tackles (seven TFL), two sacks, four pass breakups, and two interceptions.
Chris Collins, Edge (UNC)
Collins comes in as a graduate transfer who can help with the pass rush. He played sparingly until 2021 but was a solid contributor in Chapel Hill for the last two seasons. He should have at least a rotational spot in the front four and will provide solid depth.
Recent history suggests that Minnesota signs transfer players well. Defensive backs Ryan Stapp and Beanie Bishop, for example, made an impact this year after transferring a year ago. Even when transfer portal players don’t end up as starters, they’re good insurance against having to throw an inexperienced underclassman into the fire in case of injury.
