Which of Nebraska’s defensive backs could start for the Huskers? NU’s “Spring game” is approaching. And that means defensive backs coach Addison Williams is getting close to naming his starters. Let’s break down who they could be.
Ceyair Wright
The former USC Trojan took some time getting used to Lincoln. But when he did, Wright contributed right away. In the junior’s final eight games, Wright was able to record 39 tackles and two interceptions. He also had an interception against his former team. In the first quarter, he was able to pick off USC quarterback Jayden Maiava. But now, he has to earn his spot again this season. And by all accounts, we should expect Wright to get there. During the offseason, the cornerback spent countless hours with his own film. According to 247Sports, this has allowed him to “critique his own game.” However, it didn’t stop there for Wright. He was able to take another step forward in the spring. With Butler’s help, the senior has learned “how to sponge up information.” This strategy has allowed Wright to get more familiar with the playbook. It’s also gotten him to the point where he “understands things before they happen.” His vigilance will help him in his quest to play, but also mentor other corners on the roster. Florida native Amare Sanders might be the next Nebraska defensive back that he takes under his wing. Last season, he filled in for fellow cornerback Blye Hill. It’s a possibility that he could be a good piece for Williams in 2025.
Read more about Wright’s homecoming against USC in Which Players Should We Watch Against Wisconsin?
Malcolm Hartzog
In Tony White’s defense last year, Hartzog was asked to play both outside corner and free safety. For many players, this would be a huge undertaking. It was at some points. But at other times, playing two positions didn’t bother Hartzog. Last season, the Mississippi native was able to record a career high 45 tackles with four pass breakups. And he had an interception against Ohio State. Now, Butler will move him closer to the line of scrimmage. This is partially due to his weight gain. According to Inside Nebraska, it will also allow him to be flexible in defending “run fits as well as the run-pass option.”
Malcolm Hartzog’s fourth interception of the season sets up Nebraska with a first and goal at the Ohio State 7-yard line #Huskers pic.twitter.com/An72iyeXh2
— Huskers Illustrated (@Hillustrated) October 26, 2024
Marques Buford, Jr.
We should expect Buford to be a starter at cornerback or safety this fall. The junior played both positions in 2024 with great success. In just 13 games, he had 35 tackles with one interception. But if he wants to keep it, he is going to have to earn it. One player that could challenge him is Jeremiah Charles. have is waiting in the wings. The 170-pounder from Texas played in a handful of games throughout 2024. And during the Pinstripe Bowl, he was listed as Nebraska’s second cornerback on the depth chart. It will be interesting to see if he can become one of Nebraska’s starting defensive backs. He’s been making a ton of plays throughout spring practice.
Donovan Jones
After Nebraska’s Pinstripe Bowl victory over Boston College last December, Dylan Raiola claimed that Jones has the ability to kickstart “the next wave of great cornerbacks to come through Lincoln.” But why did Raiola make this statement? At the time, the freshman quarterback said that Jones has a competitive spirit. This allowed him to earn limited playing time against the Eagles. But it seems things have changed in 2025. After Evan Cooper’s departure last season, Williams was tabbed to coach Nebraska’s defensive backs. The change in leadership may be why he isn’t gaining as much traction. However, a more plausible explanation is the Huskers’ newest transfer cornerbacks. Former Idaho Vandal Andrew Marshall tops the list. The 185-pound junior after an outstanding season in the FCS. In just 14 games last season, Marshall had 72 tackles, eight pass breakups, and one fumble. This type of production makes him stand out in Williams’ room. He also showed off his skills as a punt returner with a 100-yard sprint to the endzone. He has the most upside to play right away. Former Georgia defensive back Justyn Rhett is more of a developmental prospect. He’s been virtually unheard of in Lincoln so far, but there’s a chance he could develop. He still has three years of eligibility remaining.
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