(BCSNN) — The New England Patriots selected Memphis cornerback Kobee Minor with the 257th and final pick of the 2025 NFL Draft on Saturday, earning him the title of "Mr. Irrelevant." Minor, a 6-foot, 190-pound cornerback, capped off his collegiate career with a standout season at Memphis, where he recorded 38 tackles, seven tackles for loss, two sacks, six passes defensed, and two forced fumbles in 2024.

Minor's journey to the NFL was anything but conventional. He began his college career at Texas Tech, appearing in 22 games over three seasons before transferring to Indiana in 2023, where he earned honorable mention All-Big Ten honors. Seeking a larger role, Minor transferred again to Memphis for his final season, where he became a key contributor to the Tigers' 11-2 campaign and their victory in the Scooter's Coffee Frisco Bowl.

The "Mr. Irrelevant" designation, a tradition since 1976, comes with a week-long celebration in Newport Beach, California, including a Disneyland visit and the presentation of the Lowsman Trophy. While the title carries a playful connotation, it also highlights the underdog spirit of players like Minor, who now has the opportunity to compete for a roster spot with the Patriots.

Minor joins a select group of "Mr. Irrelevant" players who have gone on to make significant NFL contributions, including quarterback Brock Purdy, who led the San Francisco 49ers to a Super Bowl appearance.