Introduction:
When fans think of college football factories producing NFL talent, schools like Alabama, Georgia, or Ohio State usually top the list. But there’s one area where Nebraska has quietly excelled — and it might just surprise you. Since the year 2000, the Huskers are among the top three schools in a very specific — but significant — NFL category, proving the Big Red brand still has powerful pull at the next level.
What’s the Stat?
So what’s the category where Nebraska ranks so highly? Offensive linemen starts in the NFL. That’s right — since 2000, Nebraska ranks third nationally for the most cumulative starts by offensive linemen in the NFL. Despite the ups and downs in Lincoln, the Huskers continue to produce tough, durable, and technically sound trench warriors who go on to carve out long, successful pro careers.
The Numbers Tell the Story
According to data compiled from Pro Football Reference and other sources, Nebraska offensive linemen have amassed over 1,700 combined starts in the NFL since the turn of the century. This puts them just behind Wisconsin and Michigan, and ahead of blue bloods like Alabama, LSU, and USC.
Names like Richie Incognito, Matt Slauson, Carl Nicks, Alex Lewis, Spencer Long, and Brent Qvale have all gone from Memorial Stadium to Sunday showdowns — and most weren’t just fringe players. These linemen logged years of consistent play, anchoring offensive fronts for top NFL teams.
What Makes Nebraska Linemen NFL-Ready?
There’s a reason Nebraska continues to thrive in this area — a tradition of physicality, elite strength training, and a system that emphasizes technique and work ethic. Even during coaching transitions and varied offensive schemes, Nebraska’s linemen have carried that grit and grind mentality forward.
The Husker Power strength program, started under Boyd Epley and modernized since, helped mold these athletes into NFL-ready machines. Scouts still take note of how Nebraska linemen handle the physical demands of pro football.
Impact on Recruiting
This stat isn’t just a feather in the program’s cap — it’s a recruiting tool. For high school offensive linemen looking to make the leap to the NFL, Nebraska is still a destination that gets results. With new coaching staff under Matt Rhule continuing to prioritize the trenches, it’s no coincidence that recent classes are once again stacked with OL talent.
Looking Ahead
With promising names like Teddy Prochazka, Justin Evans-Jenkins, and others in the pipeline, Nebraska is poised to keep the tradition alive. If development continues on this trajectory, don’t be surprised if the Huskers eventually top the list altogether.
Conclusion:
Nebraska may not always dominate headlines on Saturdays anymore, but their legacy lives strong on Sundays — particularly in the trenches. For a program built on power, toughness, and blue-collar mentality, being top 3 in NFL offensive line starts is more than just a stat — it’s a testament to what Nebraska football is all about.
