SHOCKING MOVE: Georgia Southern 4-Star Linebacker Transfers to Big Ten Powerhouse

Nebraska football has landed a key defensive addition from the transfer portal.

Former Georgia Southern linebacker Marques Watson-Trent has committed to the Cornhuskers, bringing one season of eligibility with him.

Watson-Trent, a standout performer for the Eagles, played in 49 games across five seasons. He recorded at least 114 tackles in each of the last three years, including several tackles for loss and six total sacks.

An All-Sun Belt Conference selection in 2022, 2023, and 2024, Watson-Trent was named the conference’s Defensive Player of the Year in 2024 after an impressive campaign with 120 tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss, and 1.5 sacks.

Notably, in 2022, he delivered a 10-tackle performance against Nebraska during Georgia Southern’s memorable 45-42 upset at Memorial Stadium.

Nebraska football has secured a major addition to its defense from the transfer portal, as former Georgia Southern linebacker Marques Watson-Trent has committed to the Huskers.

Watson-Trent, a 6-foot-1, 225-pound linebacker, brings a wealth of experience and accolades to Nebraska. Over five seasons with the Eagles, he appeared in 49 games, consistently proving himself as a force on the field. His ability to rack up tackles is unmatched, as he recorded at least 114 tackles in each of the past three seasons.

A Proven Playmaker

In 2024, Watson-Trent earned the Sun Belt Conference Defensive Player of the Year honors, capping off a stellar season with 120 tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss, and 1.5 sacks. His versatility and ability to disrupt offenses have been a hallmark of his game, making him one of the most productive defenders in the Sun Belt over the past few years.

Watson-Trent was also named an All-Sun Belt Conference player in three consecutive seasons (2022, 2023, and 2024), highlighting his consistency and leadership on the field.

Familiar Foe

Nebraska fans may remember Watson-Trent from the Huskers’ shocking 45-42 loss to Georgia Southern in 2022 at Memorial Stadium. In that game, Watson-Trent recorded 10 tackles, leaving a lasting impression on the Nebraska faithful. Now, he joins the program as an ally, aiming to elevate the Huskers’ defense.

A Final Chapter

With one season of eligibility remaining, Watson-Trent is ready to make an immediate impact at Nebraska. His experience and production will be invaluable as the Huskers look to improve their defensive unit under head coach Matt Rhule.

This addition continues Nebraska’s strong use of the transfer portal to bolster its roster, and Watson-Trent’s leadership and proven track record should make him a key contributor in 2025.

Husker fans, get ready to welcome Marques Watson-Trent—a linebacker with the potential to become a game-changer for Nebraska football.