If you’ve been keeping an eye on Nebraska’s fall practices, one story keeps popping: homegrown Huskers are making noise. Some are breaking through for the first time. Others, who’ve been banged up or overlooked, are forcing their way back into the conversation. Here’s where that local momentum is coming from, in plain terms.
Maverick Noonan’s reset
Elkhorn South grad Maverick Noonan has battled more than his share of injuries, which is why his open-practice showing mattered. Working at the Jack linebacker spot, he looked quick, disruptive, and confident—like a guy who can actually change a drive, not just eat snaps. The goal now is simple: stack healthy days and let the production follow.
A tight end room built right here
It’s not every day you can say a whole position group is in-state, but Nebraska’s tight ends really are:
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Luke Lindenmeyer — steady, physical, reliable.
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Heinrich Haarberg — the do-everything athlete who gives the staff flexibility.
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Eric Ingwerson — toughness and depth that shows up in the run game.
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Carter Nelson — the high-ceiling playmaker.
Together, they’ve got a chance to be one of the most productive rooms on the roster—not just a nice storyline about local roots.
Secondary sparks: Donovan Jones and Caleb Benning
On the back end, keep tabs on Donovan Jones and Caleb Benning. Jones brings solid, competitive coverage. Benning pops because he can help in multiple ways. There’s even chatter about him getting chances in the punt return game—something he did in high school—which would put the ball in his hands and let him flip field position. He’s the kind of athlete who can swing a series with one touch.
Why it matters
Nebraska has always felt different when the roster’s heartbeat is local—when you see familiar names not just on the depth chart, but in the box score. Early signs from camp suggest this group of Nebraska natives isn’t just filling out special teams or spot duty. They’re angling for real impact this fall.
