In-state commitment Barrett Kitrell much more valuable than his 3-star ranking

Geep Wade pulled out yet another win on the recruiting trail for Nebraska football on Monday, as the three-star, in-state recruit Barrett Kitrell committed to the Huskers over Iowa.

This commitment came just days after the start of the dead period. Official visits wrapped up this past weekend. Kitrell was on campus during the June 12th weekend, along with four-star offensive lineman Kyler Kuhn, who announced his commitment to Missouri also on Monday.

That means, barring any changes, Nebraska football will sign a five-man O-line class. Kitrell is the lowest-ranked of the bunch. According to Rivals, he is ranked No. 1,007, according to the Rivals Industry Rankings. He’s ranked fourth in the state of Nebraska in 2027 by Rivals and 5th by 247 Sports.

The 6-foot-4, 270-pounder visited Ohio State this spring and was offered by Tennessee. Iowa was the top contender. However, Wade’s recruiting job won him over, especially the belief by Nebraska that he can play all five positions.

Barrett Kitrell’s versatility is critical for Nebraska football

Matt Erickson and Timi Aliu have been recruited as tackles, or are listed as tackles. So was Grant Brix. They could play inside, too, along with Jordan Agbanoma and KD Jones. Either way, if Kitrell could play tackle, even as a swing option, or play center, he could have incredible value moving forward.

Some fans wondered if Nebraska football was going to take him. Iowa wanted him, so it was a smart take for the Huskers. Fans scoff at the commitment of three-star recruits, but you need them, and Kitrell is exactly the kind you want. He’s got quality upside, will be loyal to the program as a legacy, and will have a real chance to contribute in a season or two with some development.

You have to hit on the elite recruits and players in the portal. But you need to develop players, too. Kitrell represents a good opportunity for Geep Wade to do that.

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