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Sartell Today
By the People, for the People
D2 Transfer Could Boost Minnesota's Secondary in 2026
Parker Knutson's versatility could be key for the Gophers' defensive backfield next season.
Published on Feb. 17, 2026
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Minnesota has added several transfers to its secondary this offseason, and Southwest Minnesota State's Parker Knutson could be the key piece that unlocks the Gophers' full defensive potential in 2026. Knutson, a native of Sartell, Minnesota, established himself as one of the top defensive backs in Division II over the past two seasons and is now looking to make an impact at the FBS level with the Gophers.
Why it matters
The Gophers need to replace significant production in their secondary after the departures of Jai'Onte McMillan and Darius Green. Knutson's versatility to play both cornerback and safety could allow Minnesota to get the most out of its defensive backfield next season.
The details
Knutson had a standout career at the Division II level, recording 39 total tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss and five interceptions in 2024, followed by a nation-leading eight interceptions in 2025. His ball skills and ability to make plays on the ball will be a welcome addition to the Gophers' secondary. Minnesota is expected to start Michigan State transfer Aydan West and returning starter John Nestor at the outside cornerback spots, with Lehigh transfer Mekhai Smith likely taking over at safety. Knutson's versatility could allow him to fill the roles vacated by McMillan and Green, who were key contributors in the slot and at multiple secondary positions.
- Knutson recorded 39 total tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss and five interceptions in 2024 at Southwest Minnesota State.
- In 2025, Knutson led the nation with eight interceptions for Southwest Minnesota State.
The players
Parker Knutson
A native of Sartell, Minnesota, Knutson established himself as one of the top defensive backs in Division II over the past two seasons at Southwest Minnesota State.
Aydan West
A transfer from Michigan State, West is the favorite to replace Za'Quan Bryan as Minnesota's second starting outside cornerback alongside John Nestor.
Mekhai Smith
A transfer from Lehigh, Smith is expected to take over the starting safety role vacated by Koi Perich.
Jai'Onte McMillan
McMillan provided depth at multiple secondary positions for Minnesota and is now out of eligibility.
Darius Green
Green was Minnesota's primary slot cornerback in 2025 but is also out of eligibility.
What’s next
The Gophers will need to determine Knutson's exact role in the secondary, but his versatility could allow him to fill multiple positions and help replace the production lost from McMillan and Green.
The takeaway
Minnesota's secondary has undergone a significant overhaul this offseason, and Parker Knutson's arrival from Division II could be the key piece that unlocks the Gophers' full defensive potential in 2026.
