Former Nebraska Football star calls it quits on NFL career

Nebraska Football saw one of their former players end their NFL careers. In a written letter, Rex Burkhead posted his intention to stop playing the sport after 26 years of doing so. Husker fans will remember him running between the tackles, as it seemed every time he touched the ball he gained a first down.

However, after finishing the post-season run with the Houston Texans team, he will be moving on to the next phase in his life. His NFL career lasted above the average length, compared to most players. Often seen as a crafty, utility back, he was originally drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals.

The Bengals used a 6th-round pick on Burkhead, after four years with Nebraska Football. However, after four years he joined the New England Patriots. Here he played a pivotal role on their Super Bowl LVIII run. Not only did he score in the divisional round, but he also rushed for the go-ahead touchdown run in the AFC championship against the Kansas City Chiefs.

He would go on to have career-high rushing numbers later on with the Houston Texans. He was also on the team this past season during their first year with CJ Stroud. But at this point, he was playing in more of a reserved role.

Having said that, looking back on his Nebraska Football career, you can't help but smile, remembering that effort and dedication that he gave to the program. He had a long, successful career, but it started collegiately in Lincoln.

Nebraska Football playing career

Burkhead had his most impactful season as a junior. During the 2011 season, he earned First-Team All-Big Ten Honors. It was his first year as a starter, and he stepped up in a major way!
He rushed for 1,357 yards while also gaining 15 touchdowns on the ground. Additionally, he broke the school record for most carries in a game, at 38 against Iowa.

Unfortunately for him, injuries limited his senior year. But he was still able to gain an impressive 6.3 yards per carry when he did touch the ball. Regardless of the situation or who was in front of him, he had a knack for gaining yards and fighting for big plays. His intensity and hustle endeared him to Nebraska Football, as fans will continue to wish him success now that he has retired from the game.