Nebraska Battles Iowa for Elite 2028 Defensive Lineman Elijah Willis

By John Damon | Just The News Iowa

Nebraska is making an early push for one of Michigan's top 2028 football prospects, but the Huskers will have to fend off Iowa and several other Big Ten rivals to land defensive lineman Elijah Willis.

Willis, a 6-foot-3.5, 280-pound standout from Martin Luther King High School in Detroit, is ranked as the No. 1 defensive lineman in Michigan and the No. 9 overall prospect in the state. He holds offers from multiple Power Four programs and has already scheduled game-day visits with Nebraska, Iowa, Indiana, Wisconsin, Cincinnati, Penn State, and Washington.

What Position Will Willis Play in College?

Willis plays both offensive and defensive line for his high school team, but he has made his preference clear for the next level. When asked where Nebraska is recruiting him, Willis said, “Nebraska is recruiting me for DL and I wouldn't mind playing OL or DL in college but I would prefer DL.”

Nebraska defensive line coach Corey Brown is expected to lead the recruitment for Willis, with EDGE coach Roy Manning also potentially involved. Willis earned his Nebraska offer on June 20 after performing well at a Huskers camp, giving Lincoln an early foothold in his recruitment.

Iowa's Strong Track Record on the Defensive Line

Iowa has built a reputation for developing defensive linemen, a factor that could give the Hawkeyes an edge. The Hawkeyes have consistently produced NFL-caliber talent along the defensive front, and that history matters to recruits like Willis who want to play at the highest level.

Indiana, coming off a National Championship, and Penn State, with its strong recruiting pipeline, also pose significant competition. But for Iowa fans, Willis represents a potential in-state recruiting win against a divisional rival.

Willis Plans October Visit to Nebraska

Willis will get his first game-day experience in Lincoln on October 3, when Nebraska hosts Maryland. He has already visited campus for a camp but wants to see more of the atmosphere. “I am looking for a good atmosphere and how the team works together in situations,” Willis said.

The visit is a critical opportunity for Nebraska to build momentum. If it goes well, the Huskers could bring him back during the winter or spring, keeping Iowa and others on their heels.

What This Means for Iowa Recruiting

Iowa fans should watch Willis closely. The Hawkeyes have a strong tradition of developing defensive linemen, and getting Willis on campus for a game day could be pivotal. With several Big Ten programs in the mix, this recruitment will likely come down to relationships, development promises, and game-day experiences.

For now, Willis remains open, but Iowa's track record and proximity to Michigan give the Hawkeyes a solid chance to land one of the region's top 2028 prospects.

Stay tuned to Just The News Iowa for updates on this recruiting battle and more Hawkeyes football coverage.