Chris Pedota, NorthJersey.com / USA TODAY NETWORK

Former Gophers Star Tyler Nubin Fitted for New York Giants Helmet

Originally posted on Minnesota Sports Fan
By Ted Schwerzler | Last updated 5/10/24

While P.J. Fleck hasn’t yet put it all together for the Minnesota Gophers as a team, the eccentric head ball coach has elevated a few impressive NFL Draft picks. The most recent of that group is safety Tyler Nubin, and Friday he was fitted for his first NFL helmet with the New York Giants.

A five-year player for the Minnesota Gophers, Tyler Nubin played in at least 11 games each of the past three seasons. Coming into the 2024 NFL Draft as one of the top safety prospects, there was a potential he would go on day one. Ultimately being taken 47th overall by the Giants, Nubin should be in the mix for a starting role out of the gate, in the big apple.

Tyler Nubin Locked in for New York Giants

Nubin will wear number 31 at the next level, which is different from his collegiate 27, but it seemed to align just fine on his newly fitted helmet. It’s also the same number as former teammate and forever mentor, Antoine Winfield Jr.

As rookie mini camps get underway this weekend, players like Tyler Nubin will be taking the field for their respective teams for the first time. It will be this weekend that sets the stage for a level of hype that follows into training camp, and you can bet Nubin will be looking to make his mark.

Rookies gettin’ fitted ⚙️ pic.twitter.com/00IKpASmdy
— New York Giants (@Giants) May 10, 2024

Now fitted with his first professional helmet, Nubin will be seeking to put a few marks on it for the first time. Although mini camp isn’t about smashing pads, the rookie is going to want to set a tone that suggests he is ready to compete at the highest level. With a significant NCAA tenure as a member of the Gophers, establishing his presence right away is a must.

Minnesota Gophers Made Tyler Nubin a Standout in Dinkytown

While playing under Fleck, Nubin consistently improved and made his presence felt in the box score. Last season his five interceptions were a career-high, and he had increased the tally by one each of the past three years. Remaining a consistent presence in the tackle department, it’s hard not to think he will make things work at the next level.

"You're going to get it all" pic.twitter.com/egVqpkcLGR
— New York Giants (@Giants) April 27, 2024

Calling Nubin a ballhawk would be selling him short , but an all-around safety should have immediate value for Brian Daboll’s New York Giants. Nubin was a fan-favorite with Minnesota, and he could quickly establish himself to a passionate fanbase in New York as well. It remains to be seen if Nubin will be among the players that wear Guardian Caps in game, but that is not a possibility for NFL athletes.