Nelson should prove to be an asset for Nebraska Football.
In what was a difficult and trying Nebraska football season, it is only right to talk about some positives. Those positives include players who stock rose this season. One of those players who would fit the bill is Garrett Nelson.
After recording 15 total tackles in 2019, he saw that number double to 30 in 2020. He recorded 30 tackles in 1.5 sacks on the season.
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It was interesting to watch his progress throughout the season. He recorded five tackles apiece against Rutgers and in Minnesota. Although his tackle numbers were a little bit less against Purdue, that was where he recorded the first sack and a half of his career.
I talked a little bit on Sunday night about how the linebackers are in good shape for 2021. Nick Henrich is making strides, and he figures to have a huge role at the position. So too does Nelson, and we saw exactly what he could do in a shortened season. He, much like Henrich is the future at the position for Nebraska football.
I have been high on him ever since Nebraska recruited him, and much like Heinrich, his strong play came to fruition. His consistency and physicality are going to make him a crucial player for the Nebraska football defense for years to come.
Especially when you talk about a player like JoJo Domann, and his uncertain future at this point, Nelson could be a huge piece at the linebacker position. Domann is going to leave eventually anyway obviously, and Nelson will have to fill his spot.
In talking to the media earlier this month, Nelson indicated that he thought he improved quite a bit.
"“Compared to last year, as a player, I feel like I’ve improved a ton,” Nelson said earlier this month. “I’m nowhere near where I want to be as a player and as a person, but I have definitely improved and I believe it shows on the film and in the game on Saturday or Friday, or whenever we’re playing. A lot of credit goes to Coach Dawson and Coach Chins (Chinander) and pretty much everybody help me out. Getting me right every day and holding me accountable every single play, not letting me lapse back into bad habits or being complacent. … You know, I don’t really like talking about myself, but I feel like I’ve done a good job as a player, getting better and progressing.”"
I definitely see improvement coming from him. I only see him getting better as well. He is going to make up a crucial part of the defense for years to come, and he is going to be a stabilizer, much like Heinrich.
We talked a lot about Nebraska football and their misses on the recruiting trail. Nelson is certainly appearing like a win at this point. I can’t wait to see how he develops, as he really begin to put things together in 2020. His stock is rising, and things can only go up from here.