Gophers tight ends have evolved from a run-blocking afterthought into a weapon in the passing game, led by Jameson Geers who posted 28 receptions for 290 yards and four TDs while forging a connection with Drake Lindsey. The unit is on the John Mackey Award watch list and set to be a central pillar in Minnesota’s 2025 offense, which intends to deploy multiple TEs in both passing and run concepts. This shift builds on a history of strong blocking from Spann-Ford’s era and Kieft’s example, with Drew Biber added via the portal to diversify options.

Blocking remains a cornerstone, with Bierman adopting a physical approach and transitioning to No. 44 to embody the role, a lineage traced from Ko Kieft and Spann-Ford through Kallerup to Geers. The Gophers also added Purdue’s Drew Biber, aiming to balance Geers as a primary pass-catcher with a capable blocker and veteran leadership. The trend signals more TE-reliant play calls, bigger target trees, and greater versatility in the Gophers’ 2025 attack.

For fantasy and betting minds, the implication is clear: tight ends should command a larger share of Minnesota’s production, especially in structured rep schemes and red-zone packages. Geers is the centerpiece, but expect a broader TE rotation that could boost streaming options and offer weekly volatility in targets depending on defensive matchups and game plan execution.