In a significant development for Nebraska football, linebacker Dasan McCullough has announced his transfer from Oklahoma to the Cornhuskers, marking a pivotal move in the team’s defensive strategy for the 2025 season.
Background and Career Overview
McCullough’s collegiate journey commenced at Indiana University in 2022, where he quickly made a name for himself. As a true freshman, he played in all 12 games, starting four, and recorded 49 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, four sacks, and three pass breakups. His impressive performance earned him Freshman All-American honors and an honorable mention All-Big Ten selection.
In 2023, McCullough transferred to the University of Oklahoma, where he continued to showcase his versatility. He played in 10 games, starting seven, and amassed 30 tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss, and three pass deflections. In 2024, despite facing injury setbacks, he appeared in seven games, recording 17 tackles and 2.5 tackles for loss. Throughout his time at Oklahoma, he totaled 47 tackles and six tackles for loss.
Transfer to Nebraska
McCullough’s decision to transfer to Nebraska brings a wealth of experience and a unique skill set to the Cornhuskers’ defense. Standing 6-foot-5 and weighing 235 pounds, he possesses the physical attributes that make him a formidable presence on the field. His ability to play multiple positions, including linebacker, rover, and safety, provides Nebraska’s defensive coordinator, John Butler, with a versatile asset.
Head coach Matt Rhule has expressed confidence in McCullough’s potential to find a permanent role within the defense, stating, “He’s just an absolutely great athlete that people have tried in a lot of different spots… and so you see kind of like a player who hasn’t really found his home.”
Family Legacy and Recruiting Journey
McCullough hails from a football-centric family. His father, Deland McCullough, is a former NFL running back and currently serves as the associate head coach and running backs coach at Notre Dame. This strong football lineage has undoubtedly influenced Dasan’s development and understanding of the game.
As a high school recruit, McCullough was highly sought after, ranked as a four-star prospect and the No. 61 overall recruit in the 2022 class. He was also considered one of the top five outside linebackers in the nation by both ESPN and Rivals.
Impact on Nebraska’s Defense
McCullough’s addition to the Nebraska defense is expected to have a significant impact. His versatility allows for dynamic defensive schemes, enabling the coaching staff to utilize him in various roles to exploit opposing offenses’ weaknesses. His experience in both the Big Ten and the Big 12 conferences provides him with a broad perspective on different offensive strategies, which will be invaluable in preparing for a diverse range of opponents.
With one season of eligibility remaining, McCullough’s commitment to Nebraska not only strengthens the team’s defensive lineup but also adds a seasoned leader who can mentor younger players and contribute to the overall development of the defense.
As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on McCullough to see how he integrates into Nebraska’s defensive schemes and whether he can help elevate the Cornhuskers to new heights.
Trending
- Legends, Laughter, and Legacy: A Throwback Tribute with Coach Bill Cowher Ahead of the Mel Blount Youth Home All-Star Celebrity Roast
- Michigan State Secures Legacy: Tom Izzo Inks Five-Year, $31 Million Extension to Continue Storied Coaching Tenure
- Mutual Respect on the Hardwood: Michigan State’s Tom Izzo Praises Oakland’s Greg Kampe for His Coaching Excellence and Program-Building Legacy
- Clash in the Green Empire: Michigan State AD Alan Haller Trades Barbs with Beloved Coach Tom Izzo in a Rare Rift of Spartans’ Inner Circle
- A Champion On and Off the Court: Coach Tom Izzo Donates Entire $2 Million Bonus to Combat Homelessness and Uplift Vulnerable Communities
- Towering Canadian Center Olivier Rioux Reveals Five Compelling Reasons for Leaving Florida Gators, Commits to Michigan State in Bold Next-Step Move
- Grace VanSlooten Makes History: Michigan State Star Inks Landmark $15 Million Endorsement Deal, Donates $4 Million to Elevate Spartans Women’s Basketball…
- Michigan State Spartan Head Coach Tom Izzo Donates $1.4 Million in Bonus and Endorsement Earnings to Charity and Homelessness Initiatives
Monday, May 26