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Gophers linebackers prepare to replace Devon Williams in 2026

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 24, 2026, 10:27 PM

Last updated Aug 24, 2026

Gophers linebackers prepare to replace Devon Williams in 2026
Summary

Minnesota Golden Gophers linebacker Maverick Baranowski will lead the defense in 2026, marking his final season. Baranowski, alongside expected starter Matt Kingsbury, aims to fill the void left by graduated senior Devon Williams, who had 89 tackles last year. Young linebackers Emmanuel Karmo and Nate Cleveland are poised for contributions, with Karmo having impressed in his freshman year. Gopher linebackers coach Mariano Sori-Marin expresses confidence in the unit's potential for improvement.

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By the Numbers
  • •Maverick Baranowski returns for his final season as a starter.
  • •Devon Williams, last year's second-leading tackler, has graduated.
  • •Matt Kingsbury is expected to start alongside Baranowski.
  • •Karmo and Cleveland are emerging as key contributors this season.
  • •The Gophers aim to improve upon last year's solid defensive performance.
Latest Updates
  • 10:27 PMYahoo Sports — Upgrade or Downgrade at Linebacker
What they're saying
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Replacing one starter, will the Gopher linebackers be an upgrade or a downgrade in 2026?

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