Gophers get positive injury update on defensive line ahead of Indiana game

Defensive tackle Riley Sunram has been upgraded to probable after missing last week’s game against Iowa. Sunram was beginning to emerge, recording a career-high 126 defensive snaps through six games with 10 total tackles, 1.5 sacks and six QB pressures. He’s now probable to add some much-needed depth to the interior of the defensive line.

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Versatile defensive back Garrison Monroe has popped up on the report for the first time this season as questionable. He has played 109 total defensive snaps for Minnesota this season. Of those snaps, 46.7% have come at strong safety or linebacker, and 40.3% have come at slot cornerback. The rest have come at outside cornerback, outside linebacker or free safety.

Mekhai Smith and Parker Knutson are two players who could receive more snaps in the Swiss Army knife role if Monroe isn’t able to go on Saturday afternoon.

The final significant development on this week’s injury report is that starting tight end Pierce Walsh is doubtful after missing last week’s game against Iowa. True freshman tight end Roman Voss notably exploded for a career-high three catches for 34 yards in that game, so it will be interesting to see if his offensive role continues to grow.

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This story was originally published by Bring Me The Sports on Oct 29, 2026, where it first appeared in the MN Gophers section. Add Bring Me The Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.