The dream of playing professional football is becoming a reality for 12 former Nebraska Cornhuskers, as they embark on the next chapter of their careers in the National Football League following the 2024 NFL Draft. Among the group are two players selected during the draft and ten others who have either signed as undrafted free agents or received invites to NFL mini camps.
Two Huskers Selected in 2024 NFL Draft
Defensive lineman Ty Robinson was the first Husker off the board, selected in the fifth round by the Philadelphia Eagles. Tight end Thomas Fidone II followed, going in the seventh round to the New York Giants. Both were key contributors during their time in Lincoln and now take their talents to the professional level.
Six Huskers Sign as Undrafted Free Agents
Following the draft, six former Nebraska players signed NFL contracts as undrafted free agents:
- John Bullock and Ben Scott joined the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
- Nash Hutmacher and Jahmal Banks signed with the Baltimore Ravens.
- Isaac Gifford joined the Carolina Panthers.
- Isaiah Neyor signed with the San Francisco 49ers.
Bullock, a walk-on turned starter at linebacker, had a standout senior season with 70 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, and a pick-six against Purdue. His leadership and toughness made him a defensive anchor.
Scott, a transfer from Arizona State, was a reliable center who started all 13 games in 2023. His leadership on the offensive line helped pave the way for Nebraska’s most productive rushing season in years.
Banks, a transfer wide receiver from Wake Forest, led the Huskers in receiving yards during the 2024 season, with 587 yards and three touchdowns.
Hutmacher, nicknamed “Polar Bear,” was a force on the defensive line, starting every game the past two seasons. He also competed in wrestling and qualified for the NCAA Championships.
Gifford was a model of consistency in the secondary, starting 35 games and totaling 240 career tackles — one of the highest ever for a Nebraska defensive back.
Neyor, a big-play wideout, had a strong final season with five touchdowns and 455 receiving yards, capping a college career that included stops at Wyoming and Texas.
Four Huskers Receive Mini Camp Invites
In addition to the six signees, four more Huskers received mini camp invitations:
- MJ Sherman (Denver Broncos)
- Tommi Hill (Minnesota Vikings)
- Brian Buschini (New York Giants)
- Micah Mazzccua (Kansas City Chiefs and San Francisco 49ers)
Sherman, a Georgia transfer, had his best season in 2024 with 29 tackles and 3.5 sacks. Hill, a versatile player turned cornerback, had a breakout 2023 with four interceptions. Buschini, Nebraska’s punter and kickoff specialist, averaged 44.7 yards per punt in 2024. Mazzccua brought versatility to the offensive line, with 24 career starts across three Division I programs.
Looking Ahead
With talent, hard work, and determination, these 12 Huskers now have the opportunity to make their mark on the NFL stage. Whether drafted, signed, or invited, each is taking their first step toward achieving their professional football dreams. Nebraska fans will no doubt be cheering them on as they chase success at the next level.