Nebraska linebacker Javin Wright will be sidelined indefinitely due to a health issue, as announced by head coach Matt Rhule on Saturday. Wright was spotted in street clothes during Friday’s practice, and Rhule mentioned that while the senior is anticipated to return soon, he is currently unable to play.
“He should be OK; it’s just that he can’t play at the moment,” Rhule explained. Wright had been performing well with Nebraska’s top defensive unit throughout fall camp. Last season, Wright recorded 51 tackles and two interceptions in his debut year as a linebacker, despite dealing with injuries and blood clots during his time at Nebraska.
Rhule acknowledged Wright’s high level of performance, saying, “He was playing at an elite level. We have Mikai Gbayor, who has started many games for us, along with Stefon Thompson, Vincent Shavers, Gage Stenger, and Vince Genatone—there are plenty of capable players who can step in. The strength of that unit will be fine. I wanted to see Javin have his chance; he’s worked incredibly hard and I believe he’s a professional player. We’re hopeful he’ll be back at some point, but for now, he’s out.”
Last year, Nebraska rotated several players at the inside linebacker position and will need to replace Nick Henrich and Luke Reimer. Key contributors from last season include Gbayor, John Bullock, and Wright, with additional depth provided by Syracuse transfer Stefon Thompson, freshman Vincent Shavers, and Montana transfer Vincent Genatone.
“We believe in letting players prove us right rather than trying to prove us wrong,” Rhule added. “When it’s their turn to play, I expect them to perform well. I have complete confidence in Mikai and no doubts about Shavers, even if there might be some rookie moments.”
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