New Huskers stepping up
Nebraska’s spring notes show several new Huskers emerging as leaders in early drills and scrimmages, with reporters highlighting specific newcomers who’ve made the biggest impressions [].
Freshman cornerback Danny Odem bulked up from about 180 to nearly 200 pounds over winter workouts, a jump credited with improving his tackling and physical [play msn.com] and head coach Matt Rhule specifically praised Odem during his March 11 media availability. [cornhuskerswire.usatoday.com] Transfer defensive back Jamir Conn has spent repetitions at both free safety and nickel in spring drills, and local coverage says his Las Vegas Bowl prep helped boost his confidence heading into position battles. [omaha.com] Quarterback Daniel Kaelin returned to Nebraska after a 2025 season at Virginia where he completed 30 of 52 passes for 339 yards, and multiple outlets report he’s openly competing in spring for added snaps with the first-team group. [nationaltoday.com] Wide receiver Kwazi Gilmer joins the rotation after a 2025 campaign with 50 catches for 535 yards and four touchdowns at UCLA, and observers have singled out his route-running and deep-ball ability in early open practices. [cornhuskerswire.usatoday.com] Those individual jumps have tangible stakes: Nebraska’s intrasquad Red/White Spring Game is scheduled for March 28 at 11 a.m. in Memorial Stadium, giving newcomers extended game-like snaps before fall camp. [huskers.com] The coaching staff staged a lengthy intrasquad scrimmage in week two — reported at nearly 150 plays — which reporters say accelerated evaluations and gave transfers and freshmen meaningful reps against the first-team units. [nebraska.tv]
