Rising, Physical Fresno State LB Fighting for a Bigger Defensive Role
In the 2025 season, Niko Baumgartner logged limited game action for Fresno State, appearing in four games mainly on special teams before redshirting, with early stat lines showing two tackles across his first year of action. He brings a strong prep résumé from De La Salle and has been described as a hard-charging, high-upside linebacker who added size and made a notable jump in fall camp, suggesting his best football may be ahead. For a team that values development, energy, and special-teams grit, he looks like a legitimate fit.
