Gophers Running Back Fame Ijeboi to Enter Transfer Portal in January

Fame Ijeboi, the second-leading rusher for the Minnesota Gophers, has announced plans to enter the transfer portal when it opens on January 2, 2026. This decision comes after a promising season in which Ijeboi, hailing from Folcroft, Pennsylvania, rushed for 461 yards on 97 carries and scored two touchdowns over the course of 11 games. His increased playing time was largely due to the injury of starting running back Darius Taylor.

The Gophers have seen a wave of departures, with a total of 10 players indicating their intent to enter the transfer portal since the conclusion of the regular season. Ijeboi’s departure marks a significant loss for the team, given his contributions during the 2025 season. Taylor, who led the Gophers in rushing last year, is expected to return for his senior season in 2026 after posting 572 yards on 119 carries and three touchdowns last season. His performance was hampered by injuries, which opened up opportunities for Ijeboi to showcase his skills.

In addition to Ijeboi, the Gophers are anticipating the return of tailback A.J. Turner, who suffered a season-ending injury in a game against California on September 14. Prior to his injury, Turner had 16 carries for 64 yards and one touchdown, positioning him as the second option in the running back lineup.

The Gophers are also bolstering their roster with an incoming class that features three running backs, including four-star recruit Ryan Estrada from El Paso, Texas. Alongside Estrada, three-star prospects Zeke Bates from Malvern, Pennsylvania, and Niko Castillo from Schuylkill Haven, Pennsylvania, are expected to join the team.

Additionally, senior backup Cam Davis, a transfer from Washington, will exhaust his eligibility by the end of the current season. Davis has contributed 34 carries for 117 yards and two touchdowns throughout the regular season.

True freshmen Grant Washington and Tre Berry have also seen playing time, with Washington totaling 21 carries for 133 yards mainly in less competitive matchups. Berry has since left the program, while fellow true freshman Xavier Ford remains with the Gophers.

As the Gophers navigate these changes, the focus will be on rebuilding and strengthening their roster ahead of the next season. The team’s head coach, P.J. Fleck, has a considerable task ahead as he prepares for the 2026 season with a reshaped lineup and new talent.