CFB insider drops bold Big Ten 2025 NFL Draft projections for Minnesota ft. Aireontae Ersery
Minnesota has been a solid middle-of-the-road program in the Big Ten, with players being selected in the second round of the draft four of the past five years. There was one first-rounder, receiver Rashod Bateman, in 2021.
Moving forward, the program has a pair of Day 2 prospects, including one that could turn into a top-32 choice.
Minnesota Golden Gophers' 2025 NFL Draft Preview
#1 Aireontae Ersery
Offensive tackle Aireontae Ersery is the top Minnesota prospect -- at the present time. He’s a massive blocker who plays left tackle for the Gophers and does a good job.
He’s fundamentally sound and moves well for a 6-foot-6, 335-pound lineman. That being the case, I’m not sold that Ersery will be a left tackle on Sundays and believe he’ll have to move to the right side. Ersery comes with a big upside and has the potential to move up draft boards.
#2 Jah Joyner
Next April, edge rusher Jah Joyner could ultimately end up being the first Gophers player selected in the 2025 draft. Joyner is an explosive edge rusher who plays with great athleticism, speed, and strength for his size.
Joyner is rarely off his feet and constantly causes disruption. Joyner measures 6-foot-4.5, 256 pounds and is estimated to run the forty in the low 4.7s. He has incredible upside as well as growth potential.
Joyner is the type of prospect I expect to have a great season, perform well at an All-Star game in January, test well at the combine, and make big march-up draft boards.
Minnesota's 2025 NFL Draft Projections by Tony Pauline
Also Read: ACC Draft insider reveals the top 5 best late-round picks from Virginia football for 2025 ft. Malachi Fields