
Nebraska’s football program has made a significant addition to its defensive lineup by securing a commitment from former Southern Illinois defensive back Jamir Conn.
Conn, who announced his decision on social media on January 5, 2025, brings both talent and experience to the Cornhuskers’ secondary.
Background and Early Career
Hailing from Kansas City, Conn attended Lee’s Summit North High School, a program known for producing collegiate-level talent. Notably, Nebraska analyst Jamar Mozee coached at Lee’s Summit North, fostering connections that would later influence Conn’s recruitment.
Collegiate Performance at Southern Illinois
As a true freshman in 2023, Conn made an immediate impact at Southern Illinois, participating in 12 games and recording 11 tackles along with three pass breakups. His sophomore season in 2024 saw him elevate his performance, starting 11 games and amassing 43 tackles. Pro Football Focus assigned him a commendable overall grade of 74.5 for the season, reflecting his consistent play over 631 snaps.
Transfer Decision and Recruitment
After entering the transfer portal, Conn initially committed to James Madison University. However, the relationships he maintained with former coaches and teammates at Nebraska, combined with the program’s interest, led him to reconsider. A visit to Nebraska over the weekend solidified his decision to join the Cornhuskers. Conn will arrive in Lincoln with two seasons of eligibility remaining, as well as a redshirt year available.
Impact on Nebraska’s Secondary
Conn’s addition is timely for Nebraska, which has been seeking to bolster its defensive backfield. His experience and proven track record at the collegiate level are expected to provide immediate depth and competition within the secondary. Standing at 6 feet and weighing 180 pounds, Conn’s physical attributes, combined with his on-field experience, make him a valuable asset as the Cornhuskers prepare for the upcoming season.
Looking Ahead
With Conn’s commitment, Nebraska continues to strengthen its roster through strategic acquisitions from the transfer portal. The coaching staff and fans alike are optimistic that Conn’s presence will contribute to a more robust defensive unit, enhancing the team’s competitiveness in the Big Ten conference.