All Single-Digit Jerseys Have Been Earned
The single-digit jersey tradition for Nebraska has been something fans have looked forward to seeing since Matt Rhule started the tradition in 2023. Initially, we were told the players who earned the single digits were the “toughest” players on the team, but the requirements have grown. Now to earn a single digit, you must not only be tough but be a player who exemplifies accountability, dependability, competitiveness, and the core values of being a Cornhusker.
The selection process involves team votes during fall camp, and players who earn a single-digit jersey can retain it in subsequent seasons if they continue to meet the standard. The tradition has become a significant honor, with a strong defensive bias; nine of the ten 2024 recipients were defensive players, though offensive players like Dane Key and Janiran Bonner have joined the list in 2025. Rhule has emphasized that these jerseys are earned, not given, and are meant to reflect the program’s culture of toughness and leadership. So with that, let’s see who earned their digit.
0: Javin Wright- Linebacker 6’5” 230 lbs Senior Previous Number: 33
1: Ceyair Wright- Defensive Back 6’0” 190 lbs Senior Previous Number: 15
2: Jacory Barney Jr- Wide Receiver 6’0” 170 lbs Sophomore Previous Number: 17
3: Marques Buford Jr- Defensive Back 5’11” 190 lbs Senior
4: Janiran Bonner- Wide Receiver 6’2” 225 lbs Junior Previous Number: 16
5: Riley Van Poppel – Defensive Lineman 6’5” 295 lbs Sophomore Previous Number: 44
6: Dane Key- Wide Receiver 6’3” 210 lbs Senior Previous Number: 18
7: Malcolm Hartzog Jr- Defensive Back 5’9” 185 lbs Senior
8: DeShon Singleton- Defensive Back 6’3” 210 lbs Senior
9: Vincent Shavers Jr – Linebacker 6’1” 225 lbs Sophomore Previous Number: 1
