Nebraska got great news on National Signing Day when 4-star linebacker Caleb Tannor from Lithonia, Georgia, made the decision to join the Nebraska recruiting class. Tannor is immediately in the discussion for most important recruit that Scott Frost landed this cycle. Here are my five thoughts on Nebraska’s big addition.
Pass-rush Help
The Huskers have had a well-documented tough time landing impact pass rusher in recent years. The addition of Tannor gives them a player that can get after the quarterback and cause a lot of disruptions on opponent’s game plans. On film, he gets after the QB from the rush-end position and from the outside linebacker spot. Nebraska desperately needed an impact player at this position.
Stolen from the South
Despite enjoying his visit, after Tannor’s official on January there was a strong line of thinking that he would not be leaving the south to play his college football. The defender was a Georgia commit before leaving the Bulldogs' class and had significant interest from Auburn, Florida and Florida State. Plucking a great prospect from the deep south deserves a hat tip for Frost and company.
Georgia Impact
This recruiting cycle, the state of Georgia had 40 four-star-or-better players. There is plenty of talent to go around in that state and opening up a pipeline to the Peach State is a savvy move by Nebraska’s staff. Tannor joins TE/WR Katerian Legrone as Georgia natives in the recruiting class in addition to transfer Breon Dixon.
Instant impact
Barring injury, Tannor should have a tremendous opportunity to see the field early and often. Even if he starts the season off as a pass-rush specialist only, the path to early playing time is there. His size (6-3, 235) gives him a chance to make an instant impact as he continues to adjust to Big Ten football.
Versatility and Athleticism
Tannor’s speed, change of direction and strength are on full display in his film. He played outside linebacker, defensive end, middle linebacker, wide receiver and special teams for Miller Grove High School. He represents an immediate upgrade in athleticism to a defense that has lagged behind in that department in recent years.
https://www.hudl.com/video/3/6148866/59e8f643bee0830e7c291e4c
Greg is the Recruiting Analyst for Hail Varsity and has covered Husker athletics since 2013. He has always had a passion for sports while growing up in the Chicago area. As he got older and had to hang up his cleats and sneakers, he realized his passion for sports went beyond just watching and attending games. He has covered many events from the Rose Bowl to championship boxing matches. If he’s not talking sports, he’s hovering over his grill. He is married to an amazing woman, Kim, and they have a dog that barks when Greg yells at the TV during games.
