For Nebraska Cornhusker wide receiver Jamal Turner, injuries have almost become an anomaly after missing time during his each of his four seasons with the program. The NCAA, however, showed some form of humility, granting the fifth year wide out an extra year of eligibility. Turner missed all but two games during the 2014 season due to a torn achilles, while also being inactive for the final five games of 2013 with a leg injury. Turner released the news via Twitter saying, “Hi… Your medical hardship has been approved. You are good to go! Happy Spring Break. -Laure.”
When Turner has been healthy, he’s been productive, catching 64 passes for 799 yards during his 36 career games. Still, health remains a major concern for the Arlington, Texas native, but if he can stay on the field, Turner will be an invaluable asset for the Cornhuskers. Turner’s best season was impressive coming way back in 2012 when he racked up 32 grabs for 417 yards and four touchdowns.
With new offensive coordinator Mike Riley at the helm, Nebraska is expected to be a more pass oriented offense in 2015, and many figure Turner to be an important part of the Cornhusker equation. Nebraska lost leading wide out Kenny Bell to graduation, and there’s a strong chance Turner will start as soon as he returns to full strength from the achilles injury. Health will, however, be the biggest indicator of Turner’s 2015 success and will make or break his professional future.
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*Section Photo credit to Eric Francis, Getty Images; Featured Photo (above) credit to Greg Bartram, USA Today Sports.