ESPN: NEBRASKA CORNHUSKERS FOOTBALL PROGRAM SECURES COMMITMENT FROM FOUR-STAR WIDE RECEIVER: MY REASONS FOR CHOOSING NEBRASKA OVER NORTH CAROLINA, MICHIGAN STATE
In a major recruiting win for Matt Rhule and the Nebraska Cornhuskers, four-star wide receiver Jaylen Thomas announced his verbal commitment to Nebraska, choosing the Huskers over offers from North Carolina, Michigan State, and several other top-tier programs. The 6-foot-2, 190-pound pass-catcher out of Cedar Hill, Texas, is ranked among the top 30 wide receivers in the country and brings both speed and explosiveness to the field.
“I chose Nebraska because it just felt like home,” Thomas told ESPN in an exclusive interview. “From the minute I stepped on campus, the energy was different. Coach Rhule and Coach McGuire were real with me from Day 1. They didn’t sugarcoat anything—they laid out the vision, the culture, and the plan to use me in this offense.”
Thomas cited Nebraska’s new offensive direction and the program’s commitment to development as key reasons behind his decision. “They showed me the blueprint,” he said. “I’m not just coming here to be another guy. I’m coming to be the guy. They’re building something special, and I want to be part of it.”
Another major factor? The fanbase.
“Nebraska fans are built different. I posted a photo in a Huskers jersey, and my phone exploded. The love is crazy,” Thomas said, smiling. “You don’t get that everywhere.”
Despite heavy pushes from North Carolina, who highlighted their recent success in the ACC, and Michigan State, who promised early playing time, Thomas said Nebraska’s authenticity won out.
“This wasn’t about hype—it was about trust, vision, and family,” Thomas said. “I’m ready to put on for Lincoln and bring that Big Ten title back where it belongs.”
With this commitment, Nebraska adds serious firepower to its 2025 class and sends a message across the Big Ten: the Huskers are officially back in the recruiting game.
