At his press conference on Monday, Nebraska football coach Matt Rhule said that defenders Jimari Butler and Marques Buford Jr. want to return next season. Both would be seniors, with Butler returning for a sixth year and Buford returning for a fifth.
Butler has recorded 19 tackles, two sacks, and a fumble recovery in 10 games this season. Buford has started in every game this season, making seven at the quarterback position and three at the safety position. He has 27 tackles, five fumble recoveries, and an interception on the season.
Buford had four tackles on Saturday against the USC Trojans, while Butler had three.
The Huskers’ defensive line will undergo changes next season. Seniors Ty Robinson and Nash Hutmacher will no longer be with the program, Safety DeShon Singleton will no longer be with the program, and rover Isaac Gifford will depart as well. Help will be needed on the back end.
This is undoubtedly notable news for a defense that will undergo an overhaul. It will be interesting to see if they can get that final year.
Contact/Follow us @CornhuskersWire on X, and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Nebraska news, notes, and opinions.