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Husker insider sees new potential stars at QB, receiver
McCOOK, Neb. — It’s fun to see footballs flying rather than political hot potatoes around Nebraska Cornhusker quarterback Heinrich Haarberg this spring.
The former Kearney Catholic Stars quarterback was among several topics Husker insider Sean Callahan touched on during his annual McCook stop Monday evening.
Just three weeks ago, one Nebraska internet site reported Haarberg changing positions was “basically a done deal.”
Instead, Mark Whipple’s done as an offensive coach at Nebraska and everything soon changed for this recently “very rare” in-state quarterback recruit.
“For whatever reason, Mark Whipple wanted nothing to do with Henrich,” Callahan reported on Monday. “The new coaching staff had no idea why. There are always politics in big-time sports like college football.”
“But Matt Ruhle and his staff new they had to get this guy some reps.”
Haarberg has since climbed to No. 2 on the QB depth charts behind only Georgia Tech transfer Jeff Sims, Callahan mentioned on Monday.
Potential receiving targets were also “covered” during Callahan’s visit including top recruit Malachi Coleman from Lincoln East High School.
Malachi is the adopted son of former McCook resident Craig Coleman and wife Miranda. His grandparents Charles and Christina Coleman reside in McCook.
While Malachi brings elite talent to Lincoln, Callahan expects some adapting and maturing under a major spotlight like Big Red will be needed.
Malachi had earned interest from at least 15 other major college programs, according to a Sports Illustrated report in 2022.
Several other receiving prospects were discussed Monday night with Ainsworth star tight end Carter Nelson earning probably the most “air time.”
“He’s received more interest than just about any Nebraska high school player I can remember,” Callahan remarked.
Alabama, Georgia, Notre Dame and just about every top college program has contacted Nelson”except Ohio State,” according to Callahan.
He also believes the home state could impact Carter’s ultimate decision.
“His family is very important, and I think playing close to them could be a factor,” Callahan said. “You can leave at 6 a.m. from Ainsworth and see him play an 11 a.m. game in Lincoln. So I think Nebraska has a chance.”
Nelson played basketball for the Ainsworth Bulldogs, who lost twice at McCook last season.
Callahan also mentioned how new coach Ruhle has a “more open” approach about his program.
“He met all the high schools and offered his cell phone number,” he said. “He told them they can come down and watch the (Husker) players watch workouts or lift weights or whatever. Definitely different than the past.”