The Minnesota Gophers announced that safety Koi Perich has set his sights on the NFL, specifically his hometown Minnesota Vikings, according to a recent interview with KSTP Sports during media day.
Perich made his intentions clear during the interview.
“No… I didn’t watch college football, and my dream was to play for the Vikings,” Perich said. “I would just skip through college if I could and play for the Vikings. We gotta do our three years, so I’m ready to do it.”
The true freshman safety exceeded expectations last season. He quickly became a key player for the Gophers defense.
Perich’s confidence matches his on-field performance. He’s not waiting around – he’s building a resume that could attract NFL attention.
The Vikings may need a long-term replacement for veteran safety Harrison Smith. However, they’ll have to wait at least two more seasons for Perich to become draft eligible.
That timeline doesn’t seem to bother the young safety.
Perich has established himself as one of Minnesota’s most important defensive players. He’s arguably the program’s top long-term asset right now.
His goal is straightforward – make enough plays to catch NFL scouts’ attention.
The more he produces on Saturdays, the better his chances become for Sundays. Perich has made it clear he wants to stay home and play professionally.
Vikings fans might not have to wait long to see that dream become reality. At his current rate of development, Perich could be exactly what Minnesota needs in a few years.
The Gophers benefit from having a player with that level of motivation. Perich isn’t just playing college football – he’s preparing for the next level.
His hometown team could be watching closely.
