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Gophers among 12 schools 4-star 2026 cornerback is deciding between

Minnesota is firmly in the mix for one of the best high school players in Tennessee.
Tony Liebert|
Ensworth's Justin Hopkins (25) goes in motion against Lipscomb Academy' during their game at Ensworth High School in Nashville, Tenn., Friday, Sept. 20, 2024.
Ensworth's Justin Hopkins (25) goes in motion against Lipscomb Academy' during their game at Ensworth High School in Nashville, Tenn., Friday, Sept. 20, 2024. | Denny Simmons / The Tennessean / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

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Minnesota Golden Gophers

It's never too early to talk about 2026 recruiting and the Gophers are in the mix for one of the best cornerbacks in the country. Nashville, Tennessee cornerback Justin Hopkins included Minnesota in his top-12 schools earlier this week.

Hopkins is ranked as the 266th-best player in the class of 2026 according to 247Sports. Minnesota is after the Elsworth High School star alongside Vanderbilt, Iowa, Missouri, Duke, Indiana, Maryland, Auburn, Ole Miss, West Virginia, Tennessee and Georgia Tech.

Minnesota offered Hopkins on May 30, but he has not yet been on campus. Among his final schools, he's unofficially visited Ole Miss, Tennessee, Missouri and Georgia Tech, but there is still a long way to go in the 2026 cycle.

The Gophers currently have four players committed to their 2026 class, and adding a player like Hopkins would be big boost. At 5-foot-11, 170 pounds, 247Sports ranks him as the No. 18 cornerback in the country and the No. 9 player in Tennessee.

Minnesota is probably on the outside looking in when it comes to Hopkins' recruitment, but the fact that they're even in the mix makes it worth keeping an eye on.

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Tony Liebert
TONY LIEBERT

Tony Liebert is particularly known for his coverage of the University of Minnesota Golden Gophers, though he also contributes to coverage of the Minnesota Vikings, Timberwolves and Twins. His writing style is noted for providing in-depth analysis and insights, making him a go-to source for fans looking for comprehensive coverage of Minnesota sports.

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