Recent Nebraska football head coaches have consistently expressed a desire to build their rosters with talent primarily from within the state and the surrounding 500-mile radius. While the outcomes of these approaches have varied, Matt Rhule has demonstrated a notable commitment to this strategy. Under his leadership, Nebraska has recruited 16 in-state players over the past two recruiting cycles, along with eight additional players from neighboring states.
Rhule and his staff have also focused on identifying national recruits and uncovering lesser-known talent at camps. A prime example is Cedar Falls (Iowa) High School lineman Jake Peters. Despite being a 6-foot-3, 260-pound player, Peters was overlooked by many Power Five programs due to his size, while regional schools like Iowa, Kansas State, and Iowa State had shown interest but hesitated due to his smaller frame.
In late May, as Peters was arranging his June camp schedule, Nebraska’s director of player personnel, Keith Williams, reached out to him after reviewing his film. Williams invited Peters to a camp in Lincoln. Although Peters had received numerous offers from Group of Five and FCS programs, including Coastal Carolina, Northern Illinois, and North Dakota State, he had yet to secure a Power Five offer.
During his camp performance, Peters impressed the coaching staff, leading to a meeting with Rhule and offensive line coach Donovan Raiola. After discussing his film and camp performance, Rhule extended a scholarship offer. Recognizing Nebraska’s focus on recruiting interior linemen for the 2024 class, Peters visited Lincoln officially the following weekend.
Peters, who had also scheduled a visit to Iowa City, left without an offer from Iowa and a message that they would continue evaluating him. On his visit to Nebraska, he was hosted by Ethan Piper, who praised Raiola’s coaching and the close-knit atmosphere of the program. Peters enjoyed his time with Raiola and appreciated the familial environment at Nebraska.
Although Peters planned to attend a camp at Kansas State, he chose to commit to Nebraska during his visit, announcing his decision on social media on June 18. Despite his experience as a left tackle, Nebraska plans to develop him as a center due to his athleticism and potential for growth. Peters, a multi-sport athlete with achievements in basketball and track, has shown agility and drive-blocking ability that impresses the coaching staff.
Nebraska is confident in their ability to enhance Peters’ physical development while preserving his athletic qualities. There is also a possibility of Peters being considered for a defensive role if he doesn’t meet the size requirements for the offensive line in the Big Ten.
