Bobby April III Lands at Minnesota as Stanford Coaching Exodus Continues

New Stanford head coach Tavita Pritchard is reshaping his staff. Former co-defensive coordinator Bobby April III will not return for the 2026 season. He has already secured a new role with the Minnesota Gophers.

The move marks a significant shift for Stanford’s defense. According to program announcements, April’s departure follows Pritchard’s hiring in late November.

A Swift Transition to the Big Ten

April’s stint at Stanford lasted three seasons. He was originally hired by former head coach Troy Taylor in 2023. After Taylor’s firing, April stayed on as co-defensive coordinator under interim coach Frank Reich.

He helped guide Stanford’s defense to its best statistical season since 2018. Despite this improvement, a staff overhaul under Pritchard was widely expected. The program is in a clear rebuilding phase.

April fills a vacancy at Minnesota created by an internal promotion. He will serve as the outside linebackers and rush ends coach for the Gophers. Minnesota is coming off back-to-back eight-win seasons.

Experience and a Proven Track Record

April brings nearly two decades of coaching experience to Minneapolis. His career includes notable stops in both college football and the NFL. This blend of experience is valuable for Minnesota’s defensive unit.

He began as a student assistant at Louisiana-Lafayette in 2004. April later spent six seasons as an NFL assistant with the Jets and Bills. His most recent college role before Stanford was at Wisconsin from 2018 to 2022.

For Minnesota, the hire signals a commitment to defensive consistency. April has a history of developing linebacker talent at high levels. If he replicates his Stanford impact, the Gophers’ defense could become a major strength.

The challenge for Stanford is replacing his institutional knowledge. Pritchard must now build a defensive staff aligned with his long-term vision. This transition period will be critical for the Cardinal’s future.

This coaching carousel move strengthens Minnesota’s staff while giving Stanford a clean slate. The Bobby April III hire provides the Gophers with immediate defensive expertise as both programs chart their courses for the upcoming season.

Thought you’d like to know

Who is Bobby April III?

Bobby April III is a veteran football coach with nearly 20 years of experience. He most recently served as co-defensive coordinator at Stanford and has held roles in the NFL with the New York Jets and Buffalo Bills.

What is his new role at Minnesota?

April will be the outside linebackers and rush ends coach for the Minnesota Gophers. He fills a position opened by the promotion of assistant C.J. Robbins on the Gophers’ staff.

Why did he leave Stanford?

His departure followed the hiring of new head coach Tavita Pritchard. It is common for new head coaches to assemble their own coaching staffs, leading to changes among existing assistants.

How did Stanford’s defense perform under him?

In 2025, Stanford’s defense had its best season in total and scoring defense since 2017-2018. April was a key part of that defensive coaching unit during his three-year tenure.

What is Minnesota getting with this hire?

Minnesota is getting a coach with extensive NFL and Power Five conference experience. April’s background in developing linebackers and coordinating defenses adds proven expertise to their staff.