PJ Fleck Plugs Major Hole on Gophers Defensive Line

The Minnesota Gophers have been going wild in the transfer portal. With the departure of Koi Perich, a significant amount of NIL funds has been freed up.

They just recently picked up two more wide receivers after landing standout Perry Thompson earlier. The interior defensive line saw an exodus of graduations, but P.J. Fleck is working to address those concerns.

Xion Chapman brings new talent to MN Gophers defense

Deven Eastern, Jalen Logan-Redding, Nate Becker, and Rushawn Lawrence all have no eligibility remaining for 2026. Florida International transfer Xion Chapman has now committed to Minnesota to take some of the reps.

The interior lineman took an official visit with Penn State earlier this month. He was at Huntington Bank Stadium on Friday and now has declared his intentions with Minnesota.

At 6’4″ and 299 pounds, he has plenty of size. As a sophomore last season with FIU he played in 12 games. His 15 total tackles included three for losses and two sacks.

Chapman’s addition for Fleck is the second interior lineman for the Gophers. He joins Naquan Crowder as potential new starters. The edge rushing group also is impressive given the return of their starters, and addition of Cal’s T.J. Bush.

Chapman has two seasons of eligibility left. That makes it likely he contributes to the Minnesota Gophers for more than just this season.

Out of Pennsylvania, Chapman is the MN Gophers 17th commitment in the portal. He was offered by both Oklahoma State and Penn State before choosing the Gophers. A three-star transfer rating, Fleck is continuing to add a significant amount of talent.

After the Gophers finished 8-5 last season, they are looking to take a step forward next season. A double-digit win total was on the table and Minnesota fumbled away the opportunity. If Drake Lindsey reaches the next level, Minnesota could conceivably be among the best second-tier Big Ten teams.