The Minnesota Gophers‘ 2024 season may not have gone as expected, but many would argue that the program made significant progress. The offense modernized, achieving a record for passing yards, surpassing any previous team in University of Minnesota history.
On defense, the Gophers showed they were more than just Joe Rossi, who departed after 2023 to become Michigan State’s defensive coordinator. Under Corey Hetherman, who served as the one-season defensive coordinator, the 2024 Gophers defense ranked 9th in points allowed (16.9 PPG) and 5th in total yards allowed (285.7 YPG).
PJ Fleck, who coined the “Row the Boat” phrase long before joining the University of Minnesota, doesn’t just preach the motto—he lives by it and expects the same from his players.
While Fleck’s approach and lifestyle may rub some people the wrong way, his eight years as head coach have shown that he excels at developing talented athletes into responsible, hard-working individuals who succeed on the field.
At this week’s NFL Combine, several Minnesota Gophers are aiming to prove to NFL scouts, coaches, and executives that they deserve a spot in the April draft. When asked about PJ Fleck and the Gophers football program, these players have expressed their gratitude, praising the coach and program for shaping them into the individuals they are today.
Justin Walley speaks highly of Minnesota Gophers culture
Justin Walley is one of a record six Minnesota Gophers prospects who earned an NFL Combine invite this offseason. As the University of Minnesota’s top cornerback, Walley is expected to be selected before the draft concludes on April 27. Once drafted, he will have the chance to become the next former Gopher making an impact on an NFL defense.
Walley spent his entire collegiate career at the University of Minnesota, a rarity in today’s college football landscape. After hearing him speak about PJ Fleck and the Gophers program at the combine, it’s clear why he chose to stay, even though he was one of the Big Ten’s top cornerbacks since his sophomore year.
The slogan “Row the Boat” holds real meaning, as its premise can’t be superficial. If it were just a catchy phrase, PJ Fleck would lose credibility. Justin Walley’s praise of the culture and brotherhood at Minnesota shows that the players truly buy into it, willing to row alongside their head coach.
Fleck’s Gophers will never have the same NIL resources or the ability to attract top-tier talent like some of the bigger programs. That’s why their focus is on development and commitment. The more Fleck can foster a culture that encourages players to stay and grow, the more successful his teams will become.
Walley played 49 games during his four-year career at Minnesota, racking up 113 tackles and seven interceptions, including two this season. He also recorded his first pick-six and a career-high ten passes defensed.
At the NFL Combine, Walley impressed with his speed as well. Despite having a cast on his hand, he clocked a 4.4-second time in the 40-yard dash, which NFL teams will certainly value in their secondary.
As a defensive back, Justin Walley will be aiming to make a mark at the next level. While Minnesota has seen success with its safeties in the NFL, Walley has the chance to carve out a name for the Gophers’ cornerbacks in the league.
Looking ahead, next season’s schedule offers reasons for optimism for P.J. Fleck and his team. The Minnesota Gophers have the potential to compete in nearly every game on their slate, and with strong performances, they could secure a double-digit win season.
Max Brosmer felt Minnesota Gophers culture too
Walley played all four of his collegiate seasons under P.J. Fleck at Minnesota, and when the Gophers recruited Max Brosmer as a transfer, he quickly recognized the same culture Walley had spoken about, even though his time with the team was brief. When asked what stood out to him about his experience at Minnesota, Brosmer also pointed to PJ Fleck and the strong sense of unity his culture fosters.
It’s no surprise that Brosmer connects with the program’s values. Throughout the season, he displayed exceptional leadership, and his mental approach to the game makes him a strong candidate for a successful NFL career.
Brosmer’s ability to come into a new environment and instantly raise the standard for his teammates while gaining their trust in such a short time speaks volumes about his leadership qualities. This is exactly the type of player the NFL will be getting with the Gophers’ one-and-done quarterback.
With 2,800 passing yards and an 18/6 TD/INT ratio, Brosmer’s season will go down as one of the best in University of Minnesota history. While he may not be a day-one pick and could even slide to day three, there’s no doubt he can bring valuable talent, intelligence, and work ethic to whatever NFL team selects him.
Culture shows in MN Gophers staying as well
Walley briefly mentioned the shifting dynamics of college football, highlighting the impact of NIL money and the transfer portal, which have created more opportunities for players than ever before. However, when players like Koi Perich and Darius Taylor choose to stay with the program that has helped develop them, it speaks volumes about PJ Fleck’s culture.
Perich, a Minnesota native, earned numerous accolades and quickly secured playing time with the Gophers. Despite having opportunities to play elsewhere, he chose to stay. Similarly, Taylor has been a standout in his first two seasons with Minnesota. Although he could have explored other opportunities, he has decided to remain with the program as well.
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