Top 10 best Nebraska football players of all time
Nebraska’s football heritage is built on dominance, discipline, and decades of producing elite talent. From national championship runs to legendary award winners, the Huskers have shaped college football history through excellence on both sides of the ball.
Today, king soccer tips proudly presents our latest feature – a detailed ranking of the Top 10 best Nebraska football players of all time, based on production, national recognition, positional value, and long-term impact on the program. These Nebraska football best players helped transform the Huskers into one of the sport’s most powerful dynasties and continue to influence new generations of Big Red talent.
10. Will Shields – Offensive guard
Will Shields, a 1992 Outland Trophy winner, was a foundational blocker for Nebraska’s powerful rushing attacks. His dominance on the interior defined the program’s physical style.
Shields later became an NFL Hall of Famer, demonstrating how Nebraska produces linemen of rare skill and longevity.
9. Prince Amukamara – Cornerback
A first-team All-American in 2010, Prince Amukamara was Nebraska’s premier shutdown corner of the modern era. He excelled in man coverage thanks to technique and physicality.
His leadership revived Nebraska’s defensive backfield reputation as he consistently neutralized top receivers in the Big 12.
8. Ahman Green – Running back
Ahman Green powered Nebraska’s championship offense with speed and consistency. He recorded 1,877 rushing yards in 1997 while averaging more than 6 yards per carry.
Green’s postseason toughness helped Nebraska secure titles, and his success translated seamlessly to the NFL – proof of elite development in the Huskers backfield.
7. Dave Rimington – Center
Dave Rimington dominated the middle of the line unlike any center in history. He is the only player ever to win two Outland Trophies (1981, 1982), setting unrivaled standards in his position.
His influence was so significant that college football named the annual award for the nation’s best center after him: the Rimington Trophy.
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6. Eric Crouch – Quarterback
Eric Crouch’s dynamic skillset earned him the 2001 Heisman Trophy. He amassed more than 7,900 total yards while running the option offense with precision and explosiveness.
His ability to turn broken plays into touchdowns separated him from peers. Crouch ranks among the most productive dual-threat quarterbacks in college football history.
5. Grant Wistrom – Defensive end
Grant Wistrom was the heartbeat of Nebraska’s defense during its 1990s championship era. A relentless edge rusher, he earned two national titles and became a two-time All-American.
With 206 total tackles and 26.5 sacks, Wistrom’s production cemented him as one of the top defenders in school history, shaping a legacy of physical superiority.
4. Mike Rozier – Running back
The 1983 Heisman Trophy winner ran with balance, power, and elite open-field instincts. Mike Rozier rushed for 2,148 yards in his Heisman season alone – still one of the best campaigns by any running back.
Over his career, Rozier averaged a remarkable 7.2 yards per carry, showing how impossible he was to contain. He set the standard for Nebraska’s “Run the Damn Ball” philosophy.
3. Ndamukong Suh – Defensive tackle
Ndamukong Suh delivered one of the greatest seasons ever for a defensive lineman in 2009 – 85 tackles, 12 sacks, and pure backfield destruction. His dominance nearly earned him a Heisman, finishing as runner-up – extremely rare for a defensive player.
Suh’s impact remains measurable: he forced offenses to redesign protections and was double-teamed every snap. His presence hardened Nebraska’s defensive identity into something terrifying.
2. Tommie Frazier – Quarterback
Tommie Frazier was the engine behind Nebraska’s back-to-back national titles in 1994 and 1995. Known for elite decision-making in the option offense, he guided one of the most dominant teams in college football history.
Despite not winning the Heisman, his postseason legacy stands unmatched: a perfect 4–0 in national championship play, including his unforgettable 75-yard sprint vs. Florida in the 1996 Fiesta Bowl.
1. Johnny Rodgers – Wingback / Return specialist
Johnny Rodgers remains one of the most explosive and decorated stars Nebraska has ever produced. The 1972 Heisman Trophy winner delivered game-changing performances as a receiver, runner, and returner – the ultimate all-purpose threat. His electrifying “Game of the Century” punt return vs. Oklahoma still stands among the most iconic plays in college football history.
Rodgers finished his career with 5,586 all-purpose yards and 45 touchdowns, leading Nebraska to national championships in 1970 and 1971. His versatility reshaped offensive strategy nationwide.
Conclusion
These best Nebraska football players of all time delivered dominance, discipline, and trophies. Their achievements built one of college football’s most iconic dynasties and continue to inspire new generations of Huskers.
Nebraska’s proud legacy lives on – and the next great star might already be gearing up inside Memorial Stadium.
Refer to: Top 10 best Ohio State football players of all time