Transfer LB Who Ignited UNC Bears' Defense with Big Sky Weekly Honors
Xander Gagnon, a 6-4, 218-pound linebacker who transferred from Duke to Northern Colorado in 2021, exploded for 12 tackles, 2.5 TFLs, and a QB hurry in a pivotal 2021 overtime win over NAU, earning Big Sky Defensive Player of the Week for his disruptive backfield havoc—including blowing up a read-option to nail both QB and RB. With Duke experience (10 tackles in 2018-19), his size, tackling intensity, and special teams reliability make him a versatile, high-motor fit for teams needing immediate defensive impact and leadership.
