University of Minnesota Athletics

LeCaptain_Derik, coin toss
Photo by: Brad Rempel

LeCaptain Nominated for Burlsworth Trophy

11/5/2025 10:38:00 AM | Football

LeCaptain will set a program record when he plays in his 60th career game at Oregon

University of Minnesota linebacker Derik LeCaptain is a nominee for the 2025 Burlsworth Trophy.

The Trophy is named in honor of Brandon Burlsworth, former University of Arkansas walk-on and All-American offensive lineman. The Burlsworth Trophy is given to the most outstanding football player in American who began his career as a walk-on and has shown outstanding performance on the field. 

LeCaptain is a special teams stalwart for the Gophers and has played in 59 career games. When he plays in his 60th game – Friday, Nov. 14 at Oregon – he will set a program record for most games played. 

LeCaptain is a five-time Academic All-Big Ten selection and has recorded 18 tackles in his career. He also broke up one pass in his career and blocked one punt against Penn State in 2024. 
Speed is Strength | Winter Workouts
Tuesday, February 17
Winter Workouts Week Two
Monday, February 09
Winter Workouts Begin
Monday, February 02
Barber & Maroney III Highlights
Thursday, January 29