Early spring intel for Nebraska football, plus positive recruiting trends

Nebraska football started spring practice earlier than any other Power-4 program. There have been three practices, but just one since the pads have come on.

There have been some videos shared on social media by the program. Mostly, we have learned insights from some insider reports plus player/coach interviews. Sean Callahan and Steve Sipple of Husker Online shared some fall camp intel, and here are some Nebraska football players turning heads so far this spring:

Nebraska football spring rumblings

Kwazi Gilmer was mentioned by Sipple. He was also brought up by Andrew Marshall last week, who said he’s a dawg that will eat. Gilmer comes to Nebraska football with a reception in 23 consecutive games. He’s an ideal replacement for Dane Key, and will prove to be a steal in the portal.

Another offensive player who is off to a strong start is running back Kwinten Ives. Mekhi Nelson and Isaiah Mozee are 1A and 1B at running back. But Ives was successful in short-yardge runs, and has been sort of an afterthought. He’s a bigger back and did have a 100-yard game last season.

Defensively, there have been positive rumblings about Jamir Conn. The transfer, who saw action in all 13 games last season, had 10 tackles and blocked two punts. According to reports, he’s been among the best defensive players during spring ball, which is encouraging. He’s listed as a safety. He could get some work there or nickel cornerback.

Jashear Whittington, the Pittsburgh transfer, has generated some buzz with his quickness and interior pass-rush ability, something that was sorely lacking last season. He’s only 270-some pounds, so it’s fair to wonder how he will fare against the run, but Nebraska needs pass rushers, so sign me up.

Positive recruiting trends for Huskers

Nebraska football is trending to land the commitment of two 2027 recruits: Kaden Howard (3-star WR) and Barrett Kitrell (3-star IOL).

Rivals expert Tim Verghese has put in predictions for the Rivals Recruiting Prediction Machine for both to land with the Huskers. Howard is 5-foot-10 and runs the 100-meter dash in 10.78. He’s ranked 78th nationally via the Rivals Industry rankings for 2027, but would be another ideal fit.

Kirtrell, out of Ashland, Nebraska, is ranked 909th overall in the 2027 class. The 6-foot-4, 270-pounder is the sixth-ranked player in the state of Nebraska (Rivals) in the 2027 class.

Both players are expected to visit this spring.

For More Nebraska content, follow us on Twitter, like our Facebook Page, and Subscribe to the Husker Big Red YouTube Channel.