In the world of college football, especially within the competitive landscape of the Big Ten, every team is on the lookout for that hidden gem, the player who can turn a good season into a great one. Today, we're delving into the Nebraska Cornhuskers' roster and highlighting three players who, despite flying under the radar, could make a significant impact in the 2026 season.
The Mystery Wide Receiver: Demitrius Bell
Demitrius Bell's story is one of promise and perseverance. After missing the last two seasons due to injuries, Bell is finally ready to make his collegiate debut as a redshirt junior. What makes Bell particularly intriguing is his talent and the high-profile offers he received out of high school, including from Alabama, Ole Miss, and Georgia.
Head coach Matt Rhule has hinted at Bell's potential, suggesting he could be a valuable asset for offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen. Bell's versatility, having played multiple positions in high school, is a trait that could be a game-changer for the Huskers. If he can stay healthy and replicate his high school success, Bell might just be the surprise weapon Nebraska needs.
The Rising Running Back: Kwinten Ives
With the departure of All-American Emmett Johnson, the running back position is up for grabs at Nebraska. Among the contenders, Kwinten Ives stands out as a player who could steal the show. Ives, a former three-star recruit, had a slow start to his college career but showed significant improvement in 2025, averaging an impressive 6.65 yards per carry.
Now fully healthy and with an open path to the starting lineup, Ives has the potential to be a breakout star. His size and speed make him a formidable runner, and he has the added advantage of being the only upperclassman in the running back room. Coach Rhule's praise for Ives as a "starting-caliber player in the Big Ten" is a testament to his ability and a reason to keep an eye on him this season.
The Versatile Tight End: Eric Ingwerson
While Luke Lindenmeyer is the established starter at tight end, Eric Ingwerson is a player who could make waves in 2026. Ingwerson, a redshirt freshman, has bulked up and is ready to make an impact, primarily as a blocker. However, his size—a towering 6-foot-7 and 265 pounds—raises an intriguing question: Could Ingwerson be a red-zone threat in the passing game?
The success of tall wide receivers like Duce Robinson and KJ Duff highlights the potential advantage Ingwerson could bring. While his primary role is likely to remain as a blocker, the possibility of him snagging a few passes cannot be overlooked. Ingwerson's presence could add an unexpected dimension to Nebraska's offense.
As Nebraska's preseason camp progresses, these three players—Demitrius Bell, Kwinten Ives, and Eric Ingwerson—are poised to make their mark. Their stories are a reminder that in the world of college football, talent can emerge from unexpected places, and sometimes, it's the overlooked players who become the team's X-factor. Stay tuned as we continue to follow the Huskers' journey towards a potentially memorable 2026 season.
