Ochaun Mathis Named to Nagurski Trophy Watch List

Nebraska edge rusher, a transfer from TCU, is one of 85 players recognized

Nebraska edge rusher Ochaun Mathis was named Tuesday to the 85-man watch list for the Bronko Nagurski Trophy, presented each year to the nation's top defensive player.

Mathis transferred to Nebraska earlier this year after four years at TCU. In 38 games, Mathis recorded 135 tackles, 30.5 tackles for loss, 15.5 sacks and four pass breakups. He earned second-team All-Big 12 recognition in 2020 and '21.

Mathis was regarded as the most proven pass rusher in the transfer portal, and landing him was a major victory for the Huskers, who faced competition from the likes of Texas, USC and Penn State.

The 6-foot-5, 260-pound junior is the second Blackshirt to be recognized as a candidate for a major national award this season. Linebacker Luke Reimer was named to the Butkus Award watch list Monday.

Related

• Watch-list release schedule
• Complete Nagurski list
• Husker honors scorecard

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