There are veteran newcomers, but also first- and second-year players who make the second level of the Husker defense an interesting crew in 2025
Marques Watson-Trent presents himself as an “All-American tackler” on his social media.
To back up such a claim, one would need around 363 tackles throughout their college football career, and he certainly has that.
Before racking up those tackles at Georgia Southern, he hails from a Big Ten state, specifically Blackhawk High School in Beaver County, Pennsylvania—a region often considered Steelers territory. The local high schools are known for a certain style of football that reflects the Steelers’ brand of play.
“Beaver County is recognized for its tough, wing-T, line-it-up-and-run style, and as a defender, we had to adapt to stopping that kind of offense,” Watson-Trent shared with the Beaver County Times last fall. “I brought that mindset to Georgia Southern, which I refer to as being a dawg. It’s not about outside appearances; what truly matters is your inner strength and the mentality you bring to each game. Growing up in Beaver County instills that attitude in you.”
In that interview, he discussed the level of discipline required to analyze game film, emphasizing the effort needed not only to succeed in college football but to truly stand out. And he did just that! This is part of the reason he had significant opportunities in the transfer portal this winter.
Florida State also showed interest in Watson-Trent, but he ultimately chose Nebraska after being named the Sun Belt Defensive Player of the Year in 2024.
His impressive stats include 26 tackles for loss, six sacks, eight pass breakups, two interceptions, and six forced fumbles. Based on his achievements, he represents a valuable addition to a position group that seemed like it might lack seniors back in December. Clearly, that notion has changed.
Here’s a closer look at the current roster by class, combining both outside and inside linebackers:
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