The University of Nebraska–Lincoln has officially announced plans to erect a bronze statue honoring one of its most legendary football figures — a former quarterback whose name is synonymous with Cornhusker greatness. In a statement released by the athletic department, the university confirmed that work on the monument is scheduled to commence in early fall 2025, with the unveiling ceremony planned ahead of the team’s first home game of the season.
The yet-to-be-revealed statue will stand proudly outside Memorial Stadium in Lincoln, serving as a permanent tribute to a quarterback whose leadership, skill, and impact helped define an era of Nebraska football. Though the university has not yet disclosed the full details regarding the design or the sculptor commissioned for the work, it has stated that the statue will be “lifelike in scale, rich in symbolic detail, and reflective of the athlete’s enduring legacy.”
Athletic Director Trev Alberts emphasized the importance of preserving the legacy of great Cornhuskers who shaped the identity of the program. “This is not just a statue. It’s a lasting symbol of what excellence, determination, and leadership look like,” Alberts said. “Our former quarterback exemplified everything Nebraska football stands for. It’s only fitting that future generations can walk by this statue and feel inspired by what’s possible.”
Although the university has not publicly confirmed the name of the quarterback to be honored, speculation is widespread among fans and alumni. Many believe the statue is intended to commemorate Tommie Frazier, the legendary quarterback who led the Cornhuskers to back-to-back national championships in 1994 and 1995. Known for his toughness, playmaking ability, and poise under pressure, Frazier is widely regarded as one of the greatest college football quarterbacks of all time. His unforgettable 75-yard touchdown run in the 1996 Fiesta Bowl remains etched in the memory of Nebraska fans and college football historians alike.
The funding for the statue is being raised through private donations from passionate supporters of the program, many of whom have long advocated for a permanent tribute. University officials noted that interest and fundraising momentum have grown steadily in recent years, particularly as Nebraska looks to reinvigorate its football tradition and celebrate its storied past.
Former teammates, coaches, and players have already voiced their support for the project, expressing both pride and emotion over the recognition. “He was more than just a quarterback to us,” said a former offensive lineman. “He was a leader, a motivator, and the heartbeat of our team. This statue will be a beautiful way to honor that.”
In addition to the statue, plans are also underway to include a commemorative plaque detailing key achievements and career milestones, as well as interactive displays allowing fans to revisit game highlights and interviews.
With work set to begin in just a few months, excitement is building among the Nebraska football faithful. As Memorial Stadium continues to serve as a cathedral of college football tradition, the upcoming statue promises to add a new layer of history one that celebrates the past, inspires the present, and anchors the hopes of the future.
One thing is clear: for the Nebraska Cornhuskers and their legions of fans, this tribute is not just overdue it’s a defining moment for the program.
