STARS OF 2008:

QB Adam Weber -- Set a number of school passing records as a redshirt freshman. He completed 258 of 449 pass attempts (57.5 percent) for 2,895 yards and 24 touchdowns. He also led the team in rushing with 617 yards with five touchdowns. He set Minnesota single-season records for passing yards (2,895), completions (258), touchdown passes (24) and total offense (3,512).

WR Eric Decker -- The junior set a school record in 2007 with 67 receptions for 909 yards and nine touchdowns. Decker's receiving yardage and touchdowns also ranked in the Gophers' top five all-time in school history. He will not take part in spring practice because he is playing baseball for the Gophers.

LB Deon Hightower -- Became a starter halfway through the season and still finished second in tackles with 70, including a team-high 9.5 for loss. Hightower can play any of the three linebacker spots but excelled once the coaching staff moved him to the middle. He is the team's hardest hitter despite playing at only 220 pounds.

TOP NEWCOMERS

LB Sam Maresh -- Coach Tim Brewster described this true freshman as a "flag bearer" for his program and the most important member of the 2008 class. Maresh (6-3, 235 pounds) is a hard-nosed physical talent who is also a state champion wrestler. Many believe he will start from Day One at middle linebacker.

WR Brandon Green -- Big-time playmaker out of Chicago could start opposite Eric Decker as a true freshman. Four-star prospect caught 62 passes for 1,114 yards and 18 touchdowns as a senior and is the ideal fit for the Gophers' spread offense.

S Simoni Lawrence -- Junior college transfer is expected to win a starting job and be a key cog in a remade secondary. A standout at Valley Forge Military Academy, he should bring more speed and athleticism to the defense.

CB Traye Simmons -- Highly-ranked junior college transfer is expected to start at one cornerback spot. Coaching staff believes he can cover any Big Ten receiver without help over the top. Simmons did not get admitted to school for the winter semester but expects to enroll this summer or fall.

ROSTER REPORT

--RB Kevin Whaley was shot in the leg outside a nightclub in his hometown on Virginia Beach, Va., on March 22. His status for the upcoming season is uncertain.

--RB Jay Thomas is making good progress in his rehab from ACL surgery. Thomas, who is expected to split carries with Duane Bennett, is scheduled to do some drills in spring practice, although no contact.

--LB Deon Hightower had offseason shoulder surgery and will not take part this spring.

--TE Jack Simmons had foot surgery and will not participate in spring drills. He should be ready for summer workouts.

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