Punter Caleb Lightbourn Announces Transfer from Nebraska Football

Nebraska senior punter Caleb Lightbourn announced that he is leaving the football program and transferring.

His statement:

Dear Nebraska,

The time I have spent here has meant more than words can even begin to explain. The trials and tribulations that have occurred during my time here have only made me a better player, teammate, and man. I’ve given this team and state my all and you all gave it right back. I leave with no regrets. I battled adversity when I first came here. And I will continue to battle adversity as I leave, as I learn to master the mental side of the game. I thank Coach Riley for believing in me from the very beginning and everyone else who helped me along this impactful journey at Nebraska. I thank Coach Frost for the support as I go forward. I will always be grateful for my brothers that have been with me every step of the way, and I wish them nothing but the highest amount of success in these coming years.

As I continue my journey I will be transferring from the University of Nebraska. I seek a fresh start where I can be myself again and reach my full potential both athletically and academically.

Thank you, Nebraska

Lightbourn had the unenviable job of succeeding Sam Foltz, who died in a tragic car crash in 2016 just prior to Big Ten Media Days. As a freshman, he averaged 39.7 yards per punt and improved to 42.1 yards per punt as a sophomore, ranking sixth in the Big Ten. Last season, he fell into a slump and lost his punting job after two punts were returned for touchdowns while others were easily returned for big gains. Junior Isaac Armstrong replaced him, averaging 43.6 yards per punt with only six of 32 punts being returned.

Besides Armstrong, Nebraska’s roster includes senior Jackson Walker from Coffeyville Community College and freshman walk-on Grant Dethlefsen. Michigan State transfer William Przystup arrives this fall to provide even more depth.

KLIN reports that Lightbourn is in the NCAA’s transfer portal; one potential destination could be Louisiana Tech, where former NU defensive coordinator and punter coach Bob Diaco is now.