Nelson Mbanasor’s progress with the Texas Tech football program has been slow but steady.

After redshirting his freshman season, the 6-foot-3, 280-pound defensive linemen ranks 21st on the team this season in tackles with seven and a fumble recovery. The former Hendrickson High star recently recorded two tackles each in back-to-back weeks against Kansas and Iowa State in the Big 12 Conference.

Mbanasor’s versatility is seen as his strong suit, with coaches convinced his size and pass rushing skills will ultimately allow him to contribute from any position along the line.

“Nelson’s looked good,” Red Raiders defensive coordinator David Gibbs recently told Lubbock Online. “He’s got a bright future. My first year or two here, Nelson would’ve played as a true freshman.”

Mbanasor’s always had the pedigree. His older brother, P.J., is a defensive back for conference rival Oklahoma.

An ESPN three sports star coming out of Hendrickson, Mbanasor chose Texas Tech over Arkansas, Baylor, Colorado, Houston, Kansas, Oklahoma State, Purdue and SMU.

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