Rob Aurich’s track record at San Diego State gives Nebraska a clear blueprint, and Owen Chambliss may be the player who shows just how well it can work.
When Aurich stepped in as the Aztecs’ defensive coordinator in 2025, the results were immediate. San Diego State put together one of the biggest defensive turnarounds in the Mountain West and across the country, and the linebacker play inside his 4-2-5 scheme was a major reason why.
That system demands a lot from the second level. Aurich wants linebackers who can move, trust what they see, attack downhill against the run, and still hold up in coverage or pressure the quarterback in certain packages. It’s a role built for players with range and instincts, not just size.
Chambliss fit that job perfectly at SDSU. He became a centerpiece of the defense, flashing tackling ability, football IQ, and the kind of versatility that let him impact the game in multiple ways. His production was steady, his run defense was strong, and his grades reflected a linebacker who was making plays all over the field.
Aurich’s structure gave Chambliss room to use his athleticism while staying disciplined in his gaps, and that combination helped him post solid overall grades, excellent run defense numbers, and value in pass coverage as well.
Now the question shifts to Lincoln, where Aurich inherits a Nebraska linebacker room that has not been consistent enough. Even so, the fit may be better than it first looks. The Huskers bring back young players who logged meaningful snaps last season, and several of them appear to line up with what Aurich wants from the position.
Vincent Shavers Jr. and Dawson Merritt are two of the most interesting returners. Shavers brings size and a physical edge against the run, while Merritt offers athleticism and versatility that could translate to either a traditional linebacker spot or a hybrid role. Both have the kind of upside that fits Aurich’s approach.
Nebraska also added Chambliss, who arrives as a transfer and could quickly become the voice of the room. His experience in Aurich’s system gives him a head start, and that familiarity could matter as the staff tries to bring the rest of the group along.
The rest of the linebacker depth chart has plenty to sort out. Dexter Foster, a transfer from Oregon State, adds athletic depth. Will Hawthorne, a transfer from Iowa State, did not see the field as a freshman there, but he brings potential and could earn more snaps this season.
Here’s the shape of the room heading into 2026:
Owen Chambliss (transfer): Standout from SDSU who thrived in Aurich’s system. Brings proven production, instincts, and leadership that could anchor the group in Lincoln.
Vincent Shavers Jr.: Physical presence with size and run-stopping ability. Needs to improve consistency in coverage but has the tools to be a solid every down contributor.
Dawson Merritt: Athletic and versatile option who fits the hybrid demands of Aurich’s scheme. Shows good range and could excel in the cheetah role or as a traditional linebacker.
Dexter Foster (transfer): Linebacker transfer from Oregon State who adds depth and athleticism to the room. Has the physical tools to develop into a contributor in Aurich’s system.
Will Hawthorne (transfer): Linebacker transfer from Iowa State with potential and upside, didn't see the field his freshman year at ISU but could see expanded snaps this coming season.
The biggest issue for Nebraska is not just talent - it’s whether this group can become dependable. The defensive line drew plenty of blame for the run defense last season, but the linebackers at the second level were part of the problem too. If this unit stays in the right gaps and plays with consistency, it could help change the picture for the defense in 2026.
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