When Matt Rhule took over Nebraska football, he brought with him a tradition that has become one of the most respected symbols of toughness and leadership on his teams and thats the the single digit jersey. At Nebraska, those coveted numbers are not handed out lightly. They are voted on by the players themselves and represent the individuals they believe are the hardest workers, the most reliable teammates, and the toughest players on the roster.
Heading into the 2025 season, the Huskers have announced their single digit group, and once again, it’s a collection of players who could play defining roles in the program’s success. Let’s take a closer look at the newest members of this elite club and the impact they may bring this fall.
No. 0 Linebacker Javin Wright
Wright, a senior leader, embodies resilience. After overcoming health setbacks earlier in his career, he has grown into one of the locker room’s most respected voices. His ability to diagnose plays and his physicality in space will be critical for a defense that needs experience in the middle of the field. Wright’s journey makes him one of the most inspiring stories on the roster, and the “0” suits him well, representing his fresh slate and his determination to be a cornerstone on defense.
No. 1 Cornerback Ceyair Wright
The final number awarded this year went to senior cornerback Ceyair Wright, who switched from No. 15. Wright emerged last season as one of Nebraska’s most reliable defensive backs, often drawing tough assignments and stepping up in critical moments. After transferring in from USC before last year his growth has been noticed by teammates and coaches alike, and his leadership in the secondary will be essential with a Big Ten slate loaded with talented receivers. Earning the No. 1 jersey reflects his transformation into the defense’s top corner.
No. 2 Wide Receiver Jacory Barney Jr.
Barney, only a sophomore, earned the trust of teammates to carry on the single digit tradition. He flashed his athleticism last season and could see a bigger role in the Huskers’ passing game in 2025. His speed and ability to stretch the field will complement Nebraska’s deeper receiving corps, and his recognition as a single digit player suggests teammates already see him as a player ready to elevate his game.
No. 3 Defensive Back Marques Buford Jr.
Buford is one of the steady veterans in Nebraska’s linebacker room. Returning to his single digit from last season, Buford brings consistency and toughness that coaches lean on. He’ll be counted on not just to make plays, but to set the tone for younger defenders.
No. 4 Wide Receiver Janiran Bonner
Bonner, also known as “Wood”, a junior, also joins the single digit ranks. His physicality as a receiver and willingness to block make him a key piece in Nebraska’s offense. Bonner is versatile enough to line up in multiple spots, giving the Huskers flexibility in how they attack defenses.
No. 5 Linebacker Riley Van Poppel
One of the biggest breakout candidates on the roster, Van Poppel represents the youth movement on Nebraska’s defensive line. Critics have questioned the Huskers’ depth up front, but Van Poppel’s combination of size, motor, and strength has coaches excited about his potential. At 6’4”, 290 pounds, he has the tools to become a disruptive force. If he continues to develop, he could anchor the line for years to come.
No. 6 Wide Receiver Dane Key
Perhaps the most exciting addition is transfer wideout Dane Key. Coming in from Kentucky, Key immediately impressed his teammates with his work ethic, earning one of the highest vote totals for a single digit. His ability to win one-on-one matchups and make contested catches could transform Nebraska’s offense into a high powered unit. Pairing him with the Huskers’ younger receivers provides quarterback Dylan Raiola with plenty of options in the passing game.
No. 7 Malcolm Hartzog Jr.
A returning single digit linebacker, Hartzog brings swagger and experience. Known for his playmaking ability, he will again be a defensive leader in 2025.
No. 8 Deshon Singleton
Singleton also retains his single digit status. His versatility in coverage and physical presence give the defense a reliable option against both the run and the pass.
No. 9 Linebacker Vincent Shavers Jr.
Shavers wore No. 1 briefly last season but has switched to No. 9. A sophomore with sky high potential, he brings speed and aggression to the linebacker corps. His athleticism is already drawing attention, and he’s expected to carve out a bigger role this fall.
The single digit tradition is more than just a number on a jersey. It’s a badge of honor, a visible reminder of which Huskers embody toughness, discipline, and accountability. For Nebraska, this year’s group is a blend of veteran leadership, rising stars, and new faces ready to prove themselves. If the Huskers are to rise back into the national conversation, it may very well be these single digit warriors leading the charge.