Jacory Barney’s Return Threatens to Spark Nebraska’s Special Teams Revival
Nebraska’s football program may be thin on preseason All‑American recognitions, but one name is already making headlines. Jacory Barney, a wide receiver who has already shown flashes of explosiveness on special teams, was singled out by analyst Phil Steele as one of the nation’s top punt returners for the upcoming 2026 season. In his first year with the Huskers he recorded 55 receptions for 447 yards and added three punt returns and 14 kickoff returns that combined for 298 yards, highlighting his versatility on offense and special teams. The departure of longtime coordinator Mike Ekeler has left a void in Nebraska’s special‑teams unit, creating both uncertainty and an unexpected opening for fresh talent. Barney’s blend of receiving skill and return prowess gives the Huskers a dual‑threat weapon that could reshape field‑position battles. Coach Matt Rhule, who took the helm at Nebraska, has emphasized the importance of special‑team execution as a catalyst for overall momentum, and he sees Barney as a cornerstone of that strategy. If the young playmaker can translate his preseason promise into consistent production, the Huskers may find the spark they need to climb back into contention.