When MJ Sherman announced his transfer from the Georgia Bulldogs to the Nebraska Cornhuskers, it sent a clear message to the college football world: Nebraska is serious about rebuilding its defense. As a former five-star recruit and national champion at Georgia, Sherman brings a wealth of talent, experience, and a winning mentality to a Nebraska program hungry for success.
In 2024, MJ Sherman is poised to be a cornerstone of Nebraska’s defense, and his arrival signals a new era for the Blackshirts. But how did this elite athlete from one of college football’s most dominant programs end up in Lincoln? And what can Husker fans expect from him this season?
The Georgia Connection: A Champion’s Pedigree
MJ Sherman’s football journey began at St. John’s College High School in Washington, D.C., where he established himself as one of the nation’s top high school recruits. Rated as a five-star linebacker and a top-20 overall prospect in the class of 2020, Sherman had his pick of elite college programs. He ultimately chose the Georgia Bulldogs, one of the premier destinations for defensive players looking to compete for championships.
During his time at Georgia, Sherman learned from the best. Under head coach Kirby Smart, Georgia’s defense was a juggernaut, consistently ranking among the best in the country. Sherman contributed to the Bulldogs’ back-to-back national championships in 2021 and 2022, gaining valuable experience playing against top-tier competition in the SEC.
Though Sherman didn’t start every game at Georgia, his time there was invaluable. Competing in a program loaded with NFL-caliber talent, he honed his skills, developed his football IQ, and learned what it takes to win at the highest level. Now, he’s bringing that championship mentality to Nebraska.
The Decision to Transfer: Why Nebraska?
Despite the success he found at Georgia, MJ Sherman was looking for an opportunity to have a more prominent role on the field. Nebraska, under new head coach Matt Rhule, provided the perfect landing spot. Rhule’s vision for Nebraska’s defense, combined with Sherman’s desire to be a key contributor, made for an ideal fit.
“When I talked to Coach Rhule and the staff, I knew this was the right place for me,” Sherman said in an interview. “They believe in me, and they have a plan for how I can help this team win.”
Sherman’s decision to transfer to Nebraska wasn’t just about playing time—it was about joining a program with a rich tradition of defensive excellence. As a former national champion, Sherman understands what it takes to build a winning culture, and he’s eager to be part of Nebraska’s resurgence.
“It’s about being part of something bigger than yourself,” Sherman said. “Nebraska has such a strong football tradition, and I want to help bring that back.”
What MJ Sherman Brings to Nebraska
At 6’2” and 250 pounds, MJ Sherman is an athletic, versatile linebacker who can play multiple roles in the defense. He’s known for his speed, explosiveness, and ability to rush the passer—traits that Nebraska desperately needs as they look to improve their ability to generate pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
Sherman’s experience playing in Georgia’s highly disciplined, aggressive defense has prepared him to step in and contribute immediately at Nebraska. Whether it’s coming off the edge as a pass rusher or dropping into coverage, Sherman’s versatility makes him a valuable asset for the Cornhuskers.
“He’s a guy who can do it all,” said Nebraska defensive coordinator Tony White. “He’s got the speed to get after the quarterback, the strength to hold up against the run, and the football IQ to understand what’s happening on the field.”
Sherman’s physical tools and instincts allow him to be a game-changer on defense. His ability to make plays in the backfield, disrupt passing lanes, and deliver hard hits will give Nebraska a defensive weapon they haven’t had in recent years. As the Huskers look to establish a more aggressive, attacking defense under Rhule and White, Sherman’s role will be critical to their success.
Championship Mentality: Changing the Culture
One of the most significant things Sherman brings to Nebraska is a championship mindset. Having been part of a winning program at Georgia, Sherman knows what it takes to succeed at the highest levels of college football. He’s seen firsthand the work, discipline, and focus required to be a champion, and he’s eager to bring that mentality to the Blackshirts.
“Winning isn’t just about talent—it’s about preparation, hard work, and believing in each other,” Sherman explained. “That’s what I learned at Georgia, and that’s what we’re building here at Nebraska.”
Sherman’s leadership will be invaluable to a Nebraska defense that is looking to restore its identity. The Blackshirts have a proud tradition, but in recent years, they’ve struggled to consistently perform at the level Husker fans expect. With Sherman’s influence, Nebraska’s defense can begin to turn the corner and regain its place among the top defenses in the Big Ten.
“I want to lead by example,” Sherman said. “I’m going to bring that same energy and focus that helped us win at Georgia. I want to show my teammates what it takes to compete and win.”
Fitting Into Nebraska’s Defensive Scheme
Under Tony White’s defensive system, Sherman will have the opportunity to showcase his full range of skills. White’s defense, which emphasizes versatility, aggressiveness, and speed, is a perfect fit for Sherman’s abilities as a pass rusher and a linebacker.
Sherman is expected to play a hybrid role in Nebraska’s defense, lining up as both an edge rusher and an off-ball linebacker depending on the situation. This flexibility allows Nebraska to be creative in how they use him, whether it’s bringing him off the edge to disrupt the quarterback or dropping him into coverage to defend against the pass.
“We’re going to move him around a lot,” White said. “He’s got the talent to do so many different things, and that’s what makes him such a dangerous player.”
In a conference like the Big Ten, where physicality and defense often reign supreme, having a player like Sherman who can disrupt the opposing offense in multiple ways will be a game-changer for Nebraska.
Looking Ahead: A Key Piece in Nebraska’s Rebuild
As Nebraska continues to rebuild under Matt Rhule, MJ Sherman is poised to be a key piece of the puzzle. His combination of talent, experience, and leadership will make him an anchor for the Blackshirts’ defense in 2024 and beyond. For a program looking to restore its defensive identity, Sherman’s arrival couldn’t have come at a better time.
As Husker fans eagerly await the start of the season, one thing is clear: MJ Sherman is ready to lead the charge and help Nebraska return to prominence. With a national champion’s pedigree and a drive to succeed, Sherman is the kind of player who can change the trajectory of a program.