A New Chapter in Vegas: From Golden Gopher to NFL Rookie

For Cody Lindenberg, the former Golden Gophers linebacker, a new chapter has officially begun in Las Vegas. After being selected by the Raiders in the 2025 NFL Draft, Lindenberg is navigating the transition from college standout to professional rookie. In a recent Q&A, he opened up about his inspirations, the experience of his first NFL reps, and the unexpected parallels he sees between his on-field career and his off-field passion for fishing.

The Mentors: From Luke Kuechly to His Dad and Uncle

Lindenberg's football mindset is inspired by some of the game’s best. He cites All-Pro linebacker Luke Kuechly as his number one influence, admiring how Kuechly prepared and studied film.1 According to Lindenberg, Kuechly's ability to call out a significant number of opponents' plays before they even happened is what truly sets him apart. This shows Lindenberg’s deep appreciation for the mental side of the game.

His other major influences come from his off-field life. Lindenberg considers himself a skilled angler, or fisherman, thanks to the lessons his dad and uncle taught him.2 This isn’t just about casting a line and hoping for a bite; it’s a detailed, methodical process.

More Than a Hobby: The Science of a Good Cast

Lindenberg’s love for fishing is more than just a hobby; it’s a a strategic art form. He reveals that his father and uncle taught him about underwater land structure, the best time of year to fish, and even how water temperature affects the fish.3 He applies a similar level of meticulous preparation to his football game, studying an opponent's tendencies and learning the nuances of the game.4 This approach is what gives him an "astronomical difference" on the field.

Grateful for the Opportunity

While he’s fully focused on the game, Lindenberg is also taking time to appreciate his journey. He admits that it’s hard to sit back and be grateful in the moment because he knows how much better he can get. He views his opportunity with the Raiders as a blessing and says that at the end of the day, it’s still a game that he gets to enjoy with his teammates.

Conclusion: A Rookie with an Old-School Mindset

Cody Lindenberg’s Q&A provided a valuable look into the mind of a modern NFL rookie. His mix of humility and confidence, combined with an appreciation for the mental aspects of the game and his off-field interests, shows why the Raiders' scouting team saw something special in him. As he prepares for the upcoming season, his mindset, inspired by both football legends and his family, should serve him well in the NFL.

You can watch the interview with Cody Lindenberg on the Raiders' official channel.

Cody Lindenberg Is Making the Most of His Opportunity - YouTube