The Nebraska Cornhuskers have secured a significant addition to their rebuilding defense with the commitment of Andrew Marshall, a standout FCS player from Idaho. Marshall, known for his dual-threat capabilities as both a premier kick and punt returner and a first-team All-Big Sky defensive back, announced his decision on Christmas Day with a festive message on X:
“Merry Christmas 🎄 #Committed #GBR”
A Playmaker on the Field
Marshall, a 6-foot, 185-pound safety, made a name for himself during an impressive 2024 season with the Idaho Vandals. He showcased his versatility, averaging 25.2 yards per kick return and scoring touchdowns on both kick and punt returns. Marshall’s electrifying 10.7-yard average on punt returns included a highlight reel touchdown against Albany, while his kick return for a score came in a dominant performance against Idaho State.
On defense, Marshall racked up 50 tackles, three pass breakups, and a forced fumble, proving he’s just as impactful on the defensive side of the ball. His standout performance came in Idaho’s season opener against Oregon, the current No. 1 team in the country, where he tallied nine tackles in a hard-fought 24-14 loss.
A Rising Star Joins a Rebuilding Defense
Originally from Eastvale, California, Marshall attended Eleanor Roosevelt High School before breaking out as a star at Idaho. His contributions helped lead the Vandals to a 10-4 season and a second-round appearance in the FCS Playoffs, where they ultimately fell to top-seeded Montana State. After Idaho’s postseason run ended, Marshall entered the transfer portal, quickly becoming a coveted prospect for Power Five programs.
Nebraska is in the midst of overhauling its secondary, which has faced instability in recent years due to coaching changes and roster turnover. The Huskers will now feature their fourth defensive backs coach in three seasons. After Travis Fisher’s departure in 2022, Matt Rhule hired Evan Cooper, who left unexpectedly in the summer of 2024. John Butler stepped in as interim coach before leaving for a defensive coordinator position in December, paving the way for Addison Williams to take the reins.
Key Losses and Incoming Talent
The Huskers’ defensive backfield will look very different in 2025, with starters Tommi Hill, Isaac Gifford, and DeShon Singleton departing. Singleton, however, could return depending on a recent NCAA eligibility ruling for junior college transfers. Returning players like Ceyair Wright, Marques Buford, and Malcolm Hartzog provide a strong foundation, with Buford and Hartzog potentially moving into safety roles.
Marshall joins a Nebraska team that’s been aggressive in the transfer portal, already adding three defensive linemen—Williams Nwaneri, Jaylen George, and Gabe Moore—and Oklahoma’s Dasan McCullough, an outside linebacker with the versatility to play safety if needed.
A Bright Future for Marshall and Nebraska
Andrew Marshall’s commitment provides Nebraska with an immediate upgrade in its secondary and special teams. His ability to create game-changing plays in multiple phases of the game adds a dynamic element to the Huskers’ roster. As Nebraska looks to build a stronger defense under head coach Matt Rhule and new defensive backs coach Addison Williams, Marshall’s arrival is a promising sign for the program’s direction.
With his All-Big Sky pedigree and proven playmaking ability, Andrew Marshall is poised to make an impact in Lincoln—and Nebraska fans can expect big things from their latest addition.
