Nebraska Football: Huskers in the hunt for aggressive defensive playmaker

Nebraska Football is continuing to shape the 2021 class.

Nebraska football has been busy with recruiting, and earlier this week, they reached out to 2021 three-star defensive end Christian Burkhalter ($). They officially extended him an offer on Saturday.

He is the 27th overall weak-side defensive end in his class, and is the 15th overall player in his class from the state of Alabama per the 247Sports Composite Rankings.

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Sometimes, stars don’t indicate overall ability and I believe that is the case with Burkhalter. He has already amassed a solid offer sheet that includes Arkansas, Florida State, and Virginia. According to his 247Sports profile, Nebraska is favored in the 247Sports Crystal Ball predictions. In terms of recruiting, it’s hard to doubt the Crystal Ball.

He also has the ability to play the tight end position. However, I would think Nebraska football would be recruiting him for defensive end.

His recruitment has picked up this year. On January 20, he went on an unofficial visit to Georgia Tech. On January 30, he received an offer from Kentucky. Michigan is also in play for him as well, and they extended him an offer on February 13. His recruitment is beginning to grow, and I’m happy that Nebraska is taking a chance on him.  This could be a smart offer on their part.

Burkhalter had 92 tackles, including 18 tackles for a loss in 2019. Playing for Spanish Fort High School in Alabama, he also tallied eight sacks. His defensive presence was noticeable.

What could he bring to Nebraska football? he is a hard-hitter, and he is able to read plays well. It is interesting to see him move and pursue the football. At six-foot-five, 230 pounds, he is not exactly the smallest guy on the field. However, he can move with ease and is able to wrap up and make a tackle quickly. He would be able to provide an intimidating presence for Nebraska on the line.

Nebraska has taken on a defensive theme in the 2021 class, and Burkhalter would certainly fit that mold. Currently, the class ranks 35th nationally and is 10th overall in the Big Ten per the 247Sports Team Rankings.

Burkhalter would be a huge get for Nebraska as they look to load up defensively. If they could land him, he would undoubtedly strengthen their defensive line. He would be yet another key piece for the program as they look to compete with the top dogs in the Big Ten.