Minnesota missed out on the biggest — literally — recruit in the state and arguably the most sought-after high school football player in the nation.

Hulking offensive tackle Seantrel Henderson would’ve been the highlight of coach Tim Brewster’s 2010 class, not to mention his four years leading the Gophers. He had to settle for a couple of in-state stars in a deep group to help fill some positions of need.

Minnesota signed 25 new recruits to national letters of intent on Wednesday, the first day players were allowed to do so.

Making up for the loss of Henderson were a pair of well-regarded players from the Twin Cities suburbs: offensive lineman Jimmy Gjere (of New Brighton and Irondale High School) and running back Lamonte Edwards (Woodbury).