The 2027 recruiting class for the Nebraska football team was already good, and the addition of Jabari Watkins only makes it that much better.
Watkins is a 4-star big-bodied receiver out of Thomasville (Ga.) Thomas County Central. The No. 332 recruit and the No. 43 wide receiver in the nation, according to the Rivals Industry Ranking. Watkins adds his name to the commitment list alongside quarterback Trae Taylor, offensive tackle Matt Erickson, and safety Tory Pittman III in the 2027 recruiting class for Nebraska. The Huskers made the final four list for Watkins on September 22, which also included Cal, Illinois, and Florida State.
Nebraska football lands 4-star WR Jabari Watkins for 2027 class
Watkins officially pulled the trigger on Friday afternoon, giving Nebraska quite the boost as they continue to focus on recruiting during the bye week.
Watkins stands 6-foot-2 and weighs 180 pounds. According to MaxPreps, he has caught 20 passes for 280 yards and seven touchdowns through five games this fall. In 12 games as a sophomore, he had 39 receptions for 692 yards and five touchdowns.
Recruiting has been an interesting roller coaster for the Huskers over the last few months. Its 2026 class would be cause for massive concern, as NU only has 11 commits and currently ranks 79th in the country. However, with the 2027 class hauling in commits quickly and solidly inside the Top 10, some of those worries are blunted.
The big question will be just how Matt Rhule and the Nebraska football staff can turn around the 2026 class and then keep it rolling heading into the 2027 cycle.