**WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind.** — Nebraska senior linebacker Javin Wright had been looking forward to Saturday’s game for quite some time.
After missing the entire regular season due to a health issue, Wright made his return against the Boilermakers, recording three tackles in his first game back.
“It feels great to be back,” Wright said. “I know I have a long way to go in terms of conditioning and getting back to where I was last year. This is just the beginning, and it always feels good to start something new.”
Wright had been aware for about three weeks that he might return for the Purdue game, following a different recovery schedule from his teammates. He mentioned that he had been participating only in walk-through practices to stay updated on game plans while working on his comeback.
He described his recovery plan as tailored to his needs.
“It’s related to my physical condition,” Wright explained. “I can’t engage in any physical practice right now, but I’m intentional about how I practice and work out. I follow a different regimen than the rest of the team to ensure I’m deliberate in everything I do.”
During his time off due to injury, Wright remained engaged with the defense, often seen collaborating with teammates during practices and on the sidelines. He believes that staying connected during the first four weeks of the season allowed him to integrate smoothly into the game plan for Saturday.
“I don’t think I’d be in this position if I hadn’t stayed involved, and I wouldn’t have gained the trust of the coaches the way I have if I hadn’t put in the effort,” Wright said. “I was always the first one in meetings, in the film room, and even practicing on my own. I made sure to meet with coaches to discuss the games.”
Wright noted that the trust he earned was a result of his dedication to the process.
He contributed to a Husker defense that limited Purdue to just 137 yards in the first three quarters. His return also provided valuable depth, especially since the Huskers were missing second-team inside linebacker Stefon Thompson for the game.
“I think we brought our own energy,” Wright stated. “We anticipated adversity, and when it came, we responded with energy. That energy is contagious, and when everyone is energized, we play at a high level and with a physical, aggressive style.”
