Nebraska football scored a significant recruiting victory this week as highly touted running back Jamal Rule announced his commitment to the Huskers, choosing head coach Matt Rhule’s program over strong contenders Michigan State and Virginia Tech. Rule, a four-star prospect out of St. Louis, Missouri, becomes one of the cornerstone pieces of Nebraska’s 2025 recruiting class and signals a growing momentum for Rhule and his staff as they continue reshaping the roster in Lincoln.
Standing at 5-foot-11 and weighing around 205 pounds, Rule is known for his explosive acceleration, sharp vision, and punishing running style that allows him to bounce off tacklers and churn out tough yards. Over his junior season at Cardinal Ritter College Prep, he racked up more than 1,700 rushing yards and 24 touchdowns, while adding another 300 yards receiving. Recruiting analysts have praised his versatility, noting that he can be used as a traditional back between the tackles or flexed out to catch passes in the slot, giving offensive coordinators plenty of creative options.
In announcing his decision via social media, Rule posted a graphic featuring himself in Nebraska’s red-and-white uniform with the caption: “I’m staying in the Midwest. Lincoln, let’s get to work.” Speaking to reporters shortly after, Rule cited Nebraska’s culture, the opportunity for early playing time, and his conversations with Rhule and running backs coach EJ Barthel as key factors in his commitment. “Coach Rhule is building something special. You can feel the energy there. They believe in me, and I believe in them,” Rule said.
Rule’s commitment is particularly meaningful for Nebraska because of the regional recruiting battles it represents. Michigan State and Virginia Tech both made strong pushes for Rule, with each program hosting him for official visits earlier this spring. Insiders described Rule’s recruitment as “neck-and-neck” until Nebraska’s official visit, where the coaching staff reportedly laid out a vision for how Rule would fit into their offensive scheme and contribute immediately.
Head coach Matt Rhule, who led Nebraska to a 7-6 record and a Pinstripe Bowl victory last season, has placed a premium on upgrading the skill positions and adding explosive playmakers to an offense that showed flashes of potential in 2024 but struggled with consistency. With Dylan Raiola already generating excitement at quarterback, adding Rule to the mix gives the Huskers another dynamic piece to build around as they aim to climb the Big Ten standings.
Nebraska fans quickly took to social media to celebrate Rule’s commitment, sharing highlights of his bruising runs and speculating about how he could transform the team’s rushing attack. Recruiting experts have already bumped Nebraska’s 2025 class into the Top 25 rankings nationally, a promising sign for a program eager to return to national relevance.
Looking ahead, Jamal Rule says he plans to enroll early in January to participate in winter workouts and spring practices, positioning himself to compete for immediate playing time. “I’m coming in ready to work,” he said. “I want to help bring Nebraska football back to where it belongs.”
With Rule’s pledge now official, Nebraska’s recruiting momentum appears to be rolling full steam ahead, and fans are already dreaming of big runs and bigger victories under the bright lights of Memorial Stadium.