The Nebraska football team is 3-0 with three straight blowout wins, but that doesn't mean everything in Lincoln is hunky-dory. Things might not be great, especially when it comes to injuries to Carter Nelson and Jahsear Whittington.
Both Nelson and Whittington headed to the locker room before the end of the 34-7 win over North Dakota on Saturday night. Whittington was spotted holding his hand after one particular play. Nelson's injury looks like it might be quite a bit more serious.
Nelson was helped off the field by the Nebraska training staff and it didn't appear he could put any weight on his left leg. The way he exited the field was bad enough. That he eventually returned to the sideline wearing a brace on his knee and leaning on crutches is the worst sign yet.
Regarding Nelson, if he is injured and misses time, the impact is less about how much the offense will miss him, as his playing time has been relatively limited so far in 2026. The issue for the native Nebraskan is that it would be another setback for a career that has seemingly never gotten on track.
Nebraska football fears latest Carter Nelson setback after concerning North Dakota exit
While Nelson played in all 13 games as a true freshman in 2024 his impact fell short of what Nebraska expected from the 8-man star. Nelson finished the year with 10 receptions for 86 yards and one touchdown.
Last year he once again appeared in all 13 games, but he caught just 2 passes for 11 yards. He made a greater impact on special teams, returning a blocked punt for a three-yard touchdown against Michigan State. Over the offseason, Nelson underwent a procedure and missed spring practice, but the hope was that he'd turn a solid fall practice into more catches in 2026.
Nelson entered this season getting plaudits for looking every bit the part of a player who delivers an impact at tight end, backing up potential All-American Luke Lindenmeyer. So far, his only catch of the season was a 6-yard reception against North Dakota, and it's entirely possible he hurt his knee on that play.
Nebraska head coach Matt Rhule didn't address why either Nelson or Whittington left the field early on Saturday night, but he'll talk with the media again on Monday and might have an update then.
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