Defensive Depth Chart Still Taking Shape for Nebraska

Blackshirts will be issued early next week, Erik Chinander says after Tuesday’s practice

There are decisions still to be made at some positions on defense as Nebraska football enters the final week of fall camp.

Defensive coordinator Erik Chinander said it’s a good “problem” to have at the nickel spot, where Isaac Gifford, Chris Kolarevic and Javin Wright are battling for the top job.

“We’ve got the luxury right now of having some guys that can all go out there and be a starter,” said Chinander, speaking Tuesday after the Huskers’ 16th practice of preseason camp. “I think it’s a great problem to have because you have to have a good practice now or you don’t get to walk out there first.”

Devin Drew, the transfer defensive lineman from Texas Tech, is catching up quickly after arriving late to camp. “He’s dialed in ... and he’s going to compete for a chance to play” in the season opener, Chinander said.

As for the issuing of Blackshirts, Chinander said that won’t happen until shortly before or immediately after the Huskers fly to Dublin early next week for their Aug. 27 game against Northwestern.

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