Minnesota Gophers LT Continues Climb Up Mel Kiper’s Big Board

This season has been something of a roller coaster for the Minnesota Gophers. It’s hard not to look back at games against North Carolina, Iowa, and even the Michigan contest with disgust. They are set up well moving forward though, and plenty of that has been anchored by standout left tackle Aireontae Ersery.

Aireontae Ersery looks like a first round pick for Minnesota Gophers

It shouldn’t be a shock that Aireontae Ersery continues to draw the eyes of NFL Draft evaluators. He is a hulking human being, and has been well on the radar since before the season started. His abilities at the left tackle position have allowed quarterback Max Brosmer and the offense to thrive. This week he continued to move up Mel Kiper’s big board.

“Ersery is a massive blocker who has made 35 career starts, nearly all of which at left tackle. He drives defensive ends off the ball with his power and uses his movement skills to keep quicker pass rushers in check.”

Mel Kiper on Aireontae Ersery (ESPN)

The last iteration of Kiper’s rankings had Ersery checking in at 19th. Now 16th, Ersery is the second-highest offensive tackle. He trails only Texas’ Kelvin Banks Jr. Both players have started an identical eight games and have allowed just a single sack.

Minnesota OT Aireontae Ersery has a legit shot to be the first OL taken in this class. One of the smoother moving 6’6 330 lbs prospects I have ever seen. He has had a fantastic start to the season and has his biggest test today against Michigan
pic.twitter.com/fki0gX7rsh

— We are back Ben Johnson (@TommyK_NFLDraft) September 28, 2024

Related: Accolades Raining Down on Gophers QB Max Brosmer

This weekend is another solid opportunity for Ersery to show his talent. Minnesota heads to Champaign for a game against the 24th ranked Illini. They are favored by three points after throttling a solid Maryland team at Huntington Bank Stadium last weekend.

Aireontae Ersery reaching Kenneth Grant on the first play of the game.

You have my attention, No. 69!!! pic.twitter.com/Rf1HbGE54l

— Dalton Miller (@DaltonBMiller) October 1, 2024

Related: What We Learned About the Minnesota Gophers in Dominant Win Over Maryland

If the Gophers are going to pick up a big road win over a ranked opponent, Ersery will again have an impact. His continued development may push him into the top 10 when April’s NFL Draft actually rolls around.