GRAND FORKS — The UND football program made notable strides on Thursday, securing commitments from two impactful transfers for the 2025 season.
Kristen Hoskins, a wide receiver from the Minnesota Gophers, and Zach Lewis, a defensive back from Northern Arizona, both announced their decision to join UND on social media.
Hoskins, who shined in high school at Alexandria, still has two years of eligibility remaining, while Lewis, a second-team All-Big Sky Conference player in 2024, has one season left.
Standing at 5-foot-9, 175 pounds, Hoskins redshirted during the 2022 season and saw limited action in 2023 and 2024 with the Gophers.
“I was drawn to the coaching staff here and their vision for assembling the right team to chase a championship,” Hoskins explained. “Why not in the next two years? Let’s make it happen.”
After entering the transfer portal, Hoskins quickly connected with UND offensive coordinator Isaac Fruechte, who previously played wide receiver at Minnesota.
“We had a relationship even before I committed to Minnesota, so I knew he had my best interests at heart,” Hoskins added.
Hoskins was en route to Grand Forks on Thursday afternoon, heading to a 6 p.m. team meeting.
“Monday workouts are coming up, and I’m excited to get started,” Hoskins said. “Most importantly, my family will be able to come watch me play. We’re all looking forward to it.”
He’s already had a meeting with UND special teams coach Shawn Kostich to review film, aiming to contribute as a punt and kick returner.
During high school, Hoskins posted impressive numbers, catching 83 passes for 1,185 yards and 15 touchdowns in his senior season. He averaged 14.28 yards per catch, adding three kickoff returns for touchdowns, including an 89-yard return in the state quarterfinals.
Hoskins was a Top 10 finalist for the Minnesota Football Coaches Association Mr. Football Award and a three-star recruit, ranked as the No. 3 prospect in Minnesota.
With the departure of UND’s leading receiver, Bo Belquist, the Fighting Hawks have been actively seeking immediate help for their passing game.
New UND head coach Eric Schmidt has also brought in San Diego State transfer quarterback Javance Tupou’ata-Johhnson, Arizona State transfer wide receiver Jamaal Young II, and Northern Arizona wide receiver B.J. Fleming.
