In a heartfelt tribute to one of its most distinguished alumni, the University of Nebraska has honored former football star Ndamukong Suh with a bronze statue, celebrating his remarkable contributions to the Cornhuskers program and his enduring legacy both on and off the field.
The statue was unveiled during a ceremony at Memorial Stadium, coinciding with Suh’s induction into the Nebraska Athletics Hall of Fame in October 2024. Suh, who played for the Cornhuskers from 2005 to 2009, is widely regarded as one of the most dominant defensive linemen in college football history. His senior year in 2009 was particularly noteworthy, as he earned unanimous All-American honors and received multiple prestigious awards, including the Outland Trophy, Lombardi Award, Bronko Nagurski Trophy, and Chuck Bednarik Award. He also made history by becoming the first defensive player to be named the Associated Press College Football Player of the Year.
Beyond his athletic prowess, Suh has demonstrated a profound commitment to philanthropy. In 2010, shortly after graduating with a degree in construction management, he donated $2.6 million to the University of Nebraska. This generous gift, the largest ever by a former Nebraska student-athlete, allocated $2 million to the athletic department’s strength and conditioning program and $600,000 to the College of Engineering to establish a scholarship fund.
Suh’s professional career in the NFL further solidified his reputation as a formidable force on the field. Drafted second overall by the Detroit Lions in 2010, he went on to play for several teams, including the Miami Dolphins, Los Angeles Rams, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and Philadelphia Eagles. Over his 13-season career, Suh amassed 600 total tackles, 71.5 sacks, and was selected to five Pro Bowls. He also achieved the pinnacle of NFL success by winning Super Bowl LV with the Buccaneers.
The unveiling of Suh’s statue serves as a lasting tribute to his exceptional achievements and the indelible mark he has left on the University of Nebraska. It stands not only as a symbol of athletic excellence but also as an inspiration for future generations to strive for greatness both on the field and in their communities.
