University of Minnesota Athletics

2026 Football Roster

Zeke Bates headshot
Jersey Number 26

Zeke Bates

  • Position:
    RB
  • Ht./Wt.:
    5-11 / 215
  • Hometown:
    Haverford, Pa
  • High School:
    Malvern Prep
  • Years in College / At Minnesota:
    1 / 1
  • Class:
    Freshman
PRONUNCIATION

HIGH SCHOOL: Attended Malvern Prep in Malvern, Pennsylvania • wore No. 2 for the Friars and was coached by David Gueriera • two-time first-team all-league, helping Malvern to two league titles • in his senior season, averaged 15.3 yards per rush and tallied 909 yards and 13 touchdowns • consensus three-star prospect • ranked by ESPN as the No. 48 running back in the country and the No. 23 player in the state of Pennsylvania • also attended Haverford High School from 2021-23.

PERSONAL: Son of Eddie Bates and Iris Crespo-Bates • has one sister (Tatianna) • cousin, Jimi Mitchell, played football at Penn State and Chattanooga.
Barber & Maroney III Highlights
Thursday, January 29
Coach Fleck Postgame at Rate Bowl
Tuesday, January 06
Cinematic Recap: Gophers Win Ninth Straight Bowl
Friday, January 02
Anthony Smith - Rate Bowl
Monday, December 29