Gophers Post Long Injury Report Ahead of UCLA
Minnesota has ruled out eight players and listed two tight ends as doubtful for its matchup against UCLA.
Updated on Nov. 5, 2026 in Football
Minnesota released its initial injury report for the matchup against UCLA, listing eight players as out and two tight ends as doubtful. UCLA also released an initial injury report, listing quarterback Nico Iamaleava as out.
Why it matters
A thinned roster across the defensive backfield, running back, offensive line and receiving corps could shape how Minnesota approaches the game. The absence of UCLA's starting quarterback also changes the Bruins' offensive outlook for the matchup.
Minnesota's initial report lists eight players as out and two tight ends as doubtful, while UCLA, ranked No. 8, lists one player as out. The report does not specify injury types or expected return timelines for either team.
The players
Minnesota Golden Gophers
The University of Minnesota's football program, competing in the Big Ten Conference and based in Minneapolis.
UCLA Bruins
The University of California, Los Angeles football program, competing in the Big Ten Conference and based in Los Angeles.
The details
Minnesota's initial injury report lists rotational defensive back Garrison Monroe, running back Ryan Estrada, offensive linemen Brett Carroll and Ashton Beers, wide receiver Hayden Moore, quarterback Michael Merdinger, defensive back Elisha West and defensive lineman Enoch Atewogbola as out. Tight ends Pierce Walsh and Julian Johnson are listed as doubtful, and UCLA lists quarterback Nico Iamaleava as out.
Timeline
Initial injury reports for the Minnesota-UCLA matchup were published November 5, 2026, during Week 10 of the college football schedule.
Season Trajectory
Injury reports issued under standard NCAA Division I football disclosure practices give teams and fans an early read on depth ahead of conference games. For Minnesota and UCLA, the lists of absences shape how each program's Week 10 matchup takes shape within the Big Ten standings race.
Fantasy managers should note that Minnesota's tight ends are listed as doubtful and its running back and wide receiver are out, which narrows the Golden Gophers' options at those skill positions. Bettors and fans tracking Minnesota's depth chart should watch for updates to the doubtful designations before kickoff.
The takeaway
Injury reports released this early often change before kickoff, so the initial lists are best read as a starting point rather than a final picture. Readers following the game should check for updated designations closer to game day.
Further reading
For more on the state's college program, see Football coverage of Minnesota's schedule and roster news.
