Meet Kobee Minor

The NFL Draft’s final pick, known as "Mr. Irrelevant," is a title wrapped in underdog charm. In 2025, that honor went to Kobee Minor, a defensive back from Memphis, selected by the New England Patriots with the 257th pick. While the label might sound dismissive, history shows that even the last pick can defy expectations—just ask Brock Purdy, the 2022 Mr. Irrelevant turned Super Bowl quarterback. Let’s dive into Kobee Minor’s journey, his new home in New England, and why this pick matters more than you might think.  

Who Is Kobee Minor? From College Journeyman to NFL Draft Pick

Kobee Minor’s path to the NFL was anything but straightforward. The 5'11", 190-pound defensive back played for three colleges in five years: Texas Tech (2021–2023), Indiana (2023), and finally Memphis in 2024 . His final collegiate season at Memphis was his best, where he racked up 38 tackles, 7 tackles for loss, 2 sacks, 4 passes defended, and 2 forced fumbles . Though he never recorded an interception, his versatility as a hybrid cornerback/safety and aggressive tackling stood out .  


Scouts labeled Minor a "project player." NFL Network analyst Daniel Jeremiah admitted he hadn’t studied Minor thoroughly, calling the Patriots’ selection a "flier" . But for a seventh-round pick, Minor’s athleticism and work ethic offer upside. As Patriots Wire noted, he’ll join a crowded defensive backfield led by stars like Christian Gonzalez and Carlton Davis III, competing for a depth role or practice squad spot .  

Why the Patriots Took a Chance on Mr. Irrelevant

New England’s decision to draft Minor wasn’t just about filling a roster spot—it was a strategic move. The Patriots acquired the 257th pick in a trade with the Kansas City Chiefs, swapping picks 228 and 251 to secure the draft’s final selection . This gave them the ceremonial distinction of naming 2025’s Mr. Irrelevant, a tradition dating back to 1976.  


Head coach Mike Vrabel, in his first year leading the Patriots, is focused on rebuilding the team after a rocky stretch. Minor joins a draft class that includes top-100 picks like LSU offensive tackle Will Campbell (No. 4 overall) and Ohio State running back TreVeyon Henderson (No. 38) . While Minor faces long odds to make the 53-man roster, his special teams potential and adaptability could earn him a spot in a secondary that values versatility .  

The Uphill Battle: Can Minor Stick in New England?

Making an NFL roster as Mr. Irrelevant is notoriously tough. Last year’s pick, safety Jaylen Key, was cut by the Jets before Week 1 . But Minor has factors working in his favor:  

1. Special Teams Value: His tackling ability and speed (4.45-second 40-yard dash) could shine on coverage units .  

2. Coaching Flexibility: Vrabel, known for developing defensive talent, might experiment with Minor at nickelback or safety .  

3. Low Risk, High Reward: As a late-round pick, the Patriots lose little if he doesn’t pan out—but gain a diamond if he does.  


Minor’s competition includes slot corner Marcus Jones and veteran reserves. However, as Patriots Wire highlighted, the team’s rebuild means opportunities for hungry newcomers .  

Mr. Irrelevant: More Than Just a Funny Title

The "Mr. Irrelevant" tradition isn’t just about football—it’s a week-long celebration. Minor will enjoy:  

- A trip to Disneyland.  

- The "Lowsman Banquet" (a playful twist on the Heisman Trophy ceremony).  

- A sailing regatta and MLB game in Newport Beach, California .  


The festivities, founded in 1976 by Paul Salata, remind fans that every draft pick has a story. For Minor, it’s a chance to embrace the spotlight before the grind of training camp.  

Brock Purdy’s Shadow—and Why It Matters

No Mr. Irrelevant has shattered expectations like Brock Purdy. The 49ers’ 2022 final pick became a Pro Bowl quarterback and led his team to the Super Bowl within two years . While Minor isn’t a quarterback, Purdy’s success proves that draft position doesn’t define destiny. As Minor told reporters, “I’m here to work. Labels don’t matter once you step on the field.” 

The Bottom Line: What’s Next for Kobee Minor?

Minor’s immediate focus will be surviving offseason workouts and impressing coaches in training camp. His goals?  

1. Master the Playbook: Learning New England’s complex defensive schemes.  

2. Stand Out on Special Teams: Becoming indispensable in the third phase of the game.  

3. Stay Healthy: Avoiding injuries that derail rookie seasons.  


If he succeeds, he’ll join Patriots legends like Julian Edelman (a former seventh-round pick) who turned underdog status into NFL success.  

Final Thoughts

Kobee Minor’s journey from Texas Tech to Memphis to New England is a testament to perseverance. While the odds are steep, the Mr. Irrelevant title comes with a unique opportunity—and a reminder that every player, even the last one drafted, can carve out a legacy. As Patriots fans welcome their newest underdog, all eyes will be on whether Minor can turn "irrelevant" into unforgettable.  


Follow USA TODAY Sports and NBC Sports for updates on Kobee Minor’s rookie journey.