University of Minnesota Athletics

2026 Football Roster

Rainer_Zahir
Jersey Number 13

Zahir Rainer

  • Position:
    DB
  • Ht./Wt.:
    5-9 / 190
  • Hometown:
    Richmond, Va.
  • High School:
    Trinity Episcopal
  • Years in College / At Minnesota:
    3 / 3
  • Letters:
    2
  • Class:
    Redshirt Sophomore
PRONUNCIATION

HONORS:
Academic All-Big Ten (2025)

2025 • FRESHMAN SEASON: Played in three games • made his Minnesota and collegiate debut at Ohio State • played at Northwestern • competed against New Mexico. 

2024: Redshirted • did not see game action.  

HIGH SCHOOL: Attended Trinity Episcopal High School in Richmond, Va. • wore No. 1 for the Titans and was coached by Sam Mickens • as a senior, made 26 tackles, had one tackle for loss, one pass breakup, one interception, one forced fumble and one fumble recovery • named First Team All-State for three straight years • consensus three-star recruit • ranked as the No. 15 prospect in Virginia and the No. 81 safety in the nation by 247Sports.

PERSONAL: Son of Wali and Brandi Rainer • has one sister (Amira) and two brothers (Elijah and Khaild) • father, Wali, played college football at Virginia and then played in the NFL for eight seasons and was a member of the Cleveland Browns (1999–2001), Jacksonville Jaguars (2002), Detroit Lions (2003–2005) and Houston Texans (2006).
Barber & Maroney III Highlights
Thursday, January 29
Coach Fleck Postgame at Rate Bowl
Tuesday, January 06
Cinematic Recap: Gophers Win Ninth Straight Bowl
Friday, January 02
Anthony Smith - Rate Bowl
Monday, December 29