Nebraska renames several position groups
A recent article* from the Omaha World-Herald discussed a recent change to the Nebraska Football roster. The Cornhusker staff has renamed several position groups on the team heading into 2022. Now moves like this are typically not uncommon among coaching staffs. Usually, when a new staff comes to town, it’s not surprising to see some position name changes. What is unusual is that the changes occur in the middle of a coach’s tenure but Scott Frost’s tenure has been anything but normal.
It’s remarkable to see how position naming has changed in the last 25+ years. Looking back at the Cornhuskers of 1995, you’ll see positions no longer listed on Nebraska or anyone else’s roster.
Running Backs were I-Backs
Wide Receivers were Wing Backs or Split Ends
Strong Safety was listed as a Rover Back
These evolutions occur for football teams over time, and it’s no surprise that Nebraska’s roster is undergoing more cosmetic changes. As far as I’m concerned you can call the positions whatever you want. Just perform on the field. Nothing else really matters.
Look below for the new roster position names.
Outside Linebackers become Edge Players
The outside linebacker position is now known as the edge. These players are a hybrid of defensive ends and outside linebackers. Think outside linebackers in a 3-4 with more pass rush responsibility.
Players listed: Jake Appleget, Jimari Butler, Blaise Gunnerson, Braden Klover, Ochaun Mathis, Garrett Nelson, Simon Otte, Ryan Schommer, and Caleb Tannor.
Nickel Back
This group is a hybrid position. A defensive back/linebacker who plays on the perimeter of the run game while also being responsible for slot receivers and tight ends.
Players listed: Grant Buda, John Bullock, Isaac Gifford, Chris Kolarevic, Gage Stenger and Javin Wright.
Corner and Safety no longer listed as corner and safety.
Corner and safety are no longer separate position groups for the Cornhuskers. The two groups have been combined under the defensive back category. Nebraska has 24 DBs listed on their roster.
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