Minnesota’s depth along the offensive line has taken a hit.

On Monday night, Andy Greder of the Pioneer Press reported freshman offensive lineman Saia Mapakaitolo has entered his name into the NCAA transfer portal. The news comes a few days after the Golden Gophers received their bowl destination and opponent.

Minnesota is heading to the Guaranteed Rate Bowl to play West Virginia.

Mapakaitolo was a 3-star member of Minnesota’s 2021 recruiting class. He was ranked just outside the Top 500 overall prospects of the cycle and was a Top 50 offensive tackle. The Arizona native did not see any game action during the Gophers’ 8-4 campaign.

Because he did not play in the 2021 season, Mapakaitolo will still have 4 years of eligibility remaining at his next destination.