Everyone knew he was an outstanding athlete, but not many predicted Esko’s own Koi Perich would become one of the best freshman in the country last fall.

Now, with spring practices underway, the Gopher football safety is working to become a savvy sophomore who wants to play more and make more plays.

“I just try to come in and put in more work each day and hopefully everybody can see that and they can build off what I’m doing, either if it’s in the weight room or on the field and just work off my energy. That’s what I try to do each and every day,” said Perich.

Perich played in all 13 games in 2024, starting three. He made 46 tackles, 2.5 for loss, and had five interceptions. He also returned 20 punts for 188 yards, and 16 kickoffs for 314 yards.