Steven Curtis – Defensive Lineman, University of Minnesota

Steven Curtis is a versatile and high-motor defensive lineman currently competing for the Minnesota Golden Gophers after transferring from Illinois State in January 2025. Standing at 6-foot-5 and 250 pounds, Curtis brings athleticism, strength, and experience to the Gophers’ defensive front with two years of eligibility remaining.

Curtis began his collegiate career at Illinois State, where over two seasons (2023-2024), he played in 25 games, racking up 54 total tackles (26 solo), eight tackles for loss, five sacks, two forced fumbles, two pass breakups, and one interception. His standout 2024 season included 50 tackles and five sacks, earning him recognition as a disruptive force on the edge.

A product of Cardinal Newman High School in West Palm Beach, Florida, Curtis helped lead his team to an 11-1 record as a senior while wearing No. 8. He previously starred at Dwyer High School, where he contributed on both sides of the line, including limited snaps at tight end, and helped secure an undefeated regular season in his sophomore year.

Off the field, Steven comes from an athletic family—he is the son of Earnest and Karleen Curtis and has two brothers, including Josh, a former collegiate swimmer at Niagara.