Trusting his new coaches, Janiran Bonner is already off and running in new 'hybrid' role
It’s rare to find a Power Five wide receiver that would be receptive to a position change. It’s almost entirely unheard of for one to accept lining up at fullback.
But for Nebraska redshirt freshman Janiran Bonner, the opportunity to take on a unique role in the Huskers’ new offense was immediately met with intrigue. Once he saw the potential in what he called a “hybrid tight end” position, the change became a no-brainer.
Bonner’s trust in new head coach Matt Rhule’s vision for him paid off with an impressive first look in last weekend’s Red-White Spring Game.
In a tribute to former Husker head coach Frank Solich – an NU fullback himself – Bonner ran a trap up the gut for seven yards on the opening play.
The 6-foot-3, 200-pound native of Ellenwood, Georgia, finished with three carries for 12 yards while hauling in an 11-yard catch. One of his rushes converted a fourth-and-1 with a six-yard gain.
Just as importantly, Bonner showed he was a willing lead blocker, helping his White team rack up 146 yards and two touchdowns on the ground.
“It was kind of a lot at first because I had a lot more to learn, but everything’s turned out great,” Bonner said of his move. “I was accepting of it. I’m a team player, so wherever Coach needs me, I’m willing to do it.”
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Rhule sees Bonner as a versatile ‘weapon’ in Nebraska’s offense
A four-star recruit coming out of Cedar Grove High School, Bonner caught 50 passes for 816 yards and nine touchdowns as a senior. He initially committed to Georgia Tech but flipped to Nebraska on Signing Day of 2022.
Rhule hasn’t downplayed his excitement about Bonner’s potential at fullback since announcing the move going into spring practices. He’s even drawn comparisons to seven-time Pro Bowler Kyle Juszczyk of the San Francisco 49ers.
“Janiran can play every position that’s out there for us right now,” Rhule said. “I think he has a real chance, depending on how he continues to develop…
“But Janiran gives us a guy who can run it, and we’re still running power with him and ISO with him… Then he runs option routes on third downs. So, he’s really a weapon, I believe.”
Bonner said he played primarily at running back before moving to wide receiver in high school, so he’s no stranger to carrying the ball. The most significant transitions have been lining up at tight end – a spot he’d never played until this spring – and taking on much larger defenders as a lead blocker.
He said he still had a lot of work to do in his acclimation, but he was fully committed to making the most out of his new opportunity.
“I’m comfortable wherever on the field…” Bonner said. “I can adjust to anything – any environment, any coach. Everything’s been smooth with me.”
