Nebraska linebacker Jordan Ochoa is drawing significant attention from teammates, coaches, and the media, marking a notable shift in his young career. After a relatively quiet first season with the program, Ochoa is determined to make his strong spring and fall camp performances pay off on the field.
Ochoa’s trajectory began to change last December when new defensive coordinator John Butler spotted him during bowl game preparations. The once-unknown walk-on quickly became a player on the fast track to potential playing time, earning limited but impactful snaps in the Pinstripe Bowl against Boston College. Ochoa made the most of the opportunity, recording a quarterback hurry. Since then, he has continued his strong performances, making himself difficult to ignore.
«I’ve always believed in myself,» Ochoa said. «The other guys have pushed me, kept my head straight. I feel like that’s played a big part in my growth. Once we keep pushing, the sky’s the limit.» The linebacker also expressed gratitude for the guidance of his coaches and teammates, noting that learning from players like Dasan McCullough and Willis McGahee IV has made him «a lot better.»
His outside linebackers coach, Phil Simpson, has been vocal in his praise, stating that Ochoa has made «a tremendous amount of progress since the spring.» Simpson highlighted Ochoa’s «natural rush ability» and «naturally physical presence,» affirming that the young player has the tools to succeed. Jordan Ochoa is now looking to make his regular-season debut on August 28 in Kansas City, where Nebraska will take on Cincinnati at Arrowhead Stadium.