The 2016 Gopher football recruiting class was an elite class. It was a combination of some very talented local kids mixed with a few from around the country who proved to be elite as well. The group dubbed themselves the Empire Class after a summer weekend gathering, hosted by Carter Coughlin.
The Empire Class wanted to be different. They wanted to choose Minnesota and make a difference, establishing a new set of expectations for the program. And they did. This class became the foundation for the remarkable 2019 season and many went on to be drafted as they continue to play on Sundays.