It’s no secret that the Cornhuskers have prioritized in-state players. The program’s 2025 recruiting class began with four in-state pledges. Running back Conor Booth kickstarted this movement, followed by three-star defensive lineman Tyson Terry. In recent weeks, wide receiver Jackson Carpenter joined the program. Last Saturday, Nebraska got more in-state credibility with the addition of linebacker Pierce Mooberry. Let’s take a look at what he brings to the Big Red.
Another Homegrown Husker
Most high school prospects in the state of Nebraska want to be in Lincoln. Before he was even offered by Nebraska, Mooberry stated that “playing for Nebraska has always been his dream.” Throughout his life, he had always been a Husker fan, and it stood out as “a place that he wanted to go”. In fact, he’d talked about it frequently with current Husker commit Caden VerMaas. After several offers from Minnesota and Kansas State, the 205-pound linebacker would get his wish granted in January. Head coach Matt Rhule called him on vacation about the 2025 class. But what really stood out to him throughout the call? “He really loved his film” and wanted him to be a part of the team.” That was all the motivation he needed to shut down his recruitment. Can he use this attitude to gain early playing time? Or does the depth make it harder for the linebacker to achieve this goal as a freshman?
Versatility At His Position
Under linebackers coach Rob Dvoracek, Mooberry will occupy the Will linebacker position at the second level. This is an ideal spot for him because it will allow him to show off his flexibility in coverage. Furthermore, he will also be valuable on the line of scrimmage. In this area, he looks to help with run support and rushing the quarterback. But he’ll have a long road if he wants to play immediately. After a productive fifth year in Lincoln, John Bullock returns to Lincoln to pick up where he left off. After three years of minimal playing time, Javin Wright finally emerged in his position. He ranked second on the team in total tackles. And in pass coverage, he snagged a pair of interceptions in key moments. In addition, some of the younger players on Nebraska’s roster have taken big strides as well. In 12 games as a sophomore, Mikai Gbayor totaled 24 tackles with three tackles for loss. Could we see the same type of production from Mooberry if he rotates in for Nebraska as a freshman?
Read more about linebacker Bullock in Who Stands Out In Nebraska’s Spring Practice?
A New Peer Recruiter
For the past two weeks, the Nebraska coaching staff has been on a recruiting run. On June 5th, the Cornhuskers added four-star running back Jamarion Parker out of St. Louis. And on June 8th, the Cornhuskers got another surprise with Mooberry’s pledge. The three-star prospect should provide momentum to the team’s presence within the state. But he can also provide insight into the program’s other top targets on defense. Four-star linebacker Christian Jones is a prime example. The number one player in Nebraska has been a high priority for the Huskers for several years. He’s responded to that interest by scheduling a visit to the Cornhuskers on June 14. It’s a good chance for Mooberry to pitch him before he takes his visits to Oklahoma and USC. On the other hand, he could also give NU a boost in recruiting Millard South tight end Chase Loftin. According to 247Sports, the four-star recruit is the second-best player in the state of Nebraska. Can Mooberry impact his recruitment even though he has connections to Florida State and Texas A&M? The answer probably isn’t a good one, but we’ll know for sure what his thoughts are when he visits Lincoln on June 21.
