Minnesota sophomore linebacker De'Niro Laster is transferring to be closer to home, he confirmed Thursday.
The 6-foot-4, 226-pound Cleveland native was expected to compete for a starting spot for the Gophers this season.
"I'm transferring home to be closer to my family as we are going through a difficult family situation right now," Laster said in a text message to the Pioneer Press. "I will miss all of my teammates and the fans dearly! I don't have a school picked right now, but I will have one in the upcoming week.
"I love Coach (Jerry) Kill and I am thankful and honored for what we did there as a program.