University of Minnesota Athletics
2016 Football Roster

Matt Leidner
- Class:
- Redshirt Junior
- Position:
- OL
- Hometown:
- Lakeville, Minn.
- High School:
- Lakeville South HS
2016 • JUNIOR SEASON: Played in five games and made his first career start in the Holiday Bowl against Washington State • Academic All-Big Ten. Game-by-Game: Saw action on the offensive line as a reserve against Indiana State • competed extremely hard at Maryland, at Illinois and in the final home game of his career against Northwestern • started at center against Washington State and posted a dominating performance on the offensive line as Minnesota beat the Cougars 17-12 • named to the 2016 Associated Press All-Bowl Team.
2015 • SOPHOMORE SEASON: Played in three games, seeing action on offense and on special teams • Academic All-Big Ten. Game-by-Game: Made his season and collegiate debut as a reserve center at Purdue • played on special teams at Ohio State • saw action on offense against Illinois.
2014 • FRESHMAN SEASON: Did not see game action • named Offensive Work Team Player of the Year.
2013: Redshirted.
HIGH SCHOOL: Attended Lakeville South • blocked for an offense that rushed for 1,910 yards and 19 touchdowns • recorded 105 pancake blocks • protected for a passing game that threw for 704 yards and four touchdowns • named Second-Team All-State and All Metro • coached by Larry Thompson.
PERSONAL: Born May 10, 1995 • son of Jeff and Carrie Leidner • has two siblings • older brother Mitch plays quarterback for the Gophers.