Omaha product C.J. Zimmerer is one of two in-state players in Nebraska's 2009 recruiting class, joining lineman Cole Pensick of Lincoln Northeast. The 6-0, 220-pound Zimmerer excelled as a two-way standout for Coach Tim Johnk at Omaha Gross High each of his last three seasons. Zimmerer is expected to begin his Nebraska career in the offensive backfield, after posting impressive numbers on both sides of the ball for Gross in 2008. As a running back, he posted 1,325 yards and 17 touchdowns, while averaging better than 10 yards per carry.

Defensively, Zimmerer was a force at linebacker, where he made 90 tackles, including nine tackles for loss and added a pair of interceptions. His performance as a senior helped Gross to a 9-2 record and a trip to the second round of the Class B state playoffs. Zimmerer was named to the Lincoln Journal Star Super-State first team as a fullback, while the Omaha World-Herald made him a first-team All-Nebraska pick at linebacker. He was also the honorary captain of the World-Herald's Class B all-state defense.

The big numbers as a senior were nothing new for Zimmerer. During his junior season, he ran for 701 yards and 11 touchdowns on just 88 carries, while making 123 tackles, including five sacks on defense. His play as a junior earned him first-team Class B all-state honors from both of the state's largest papers. He also started on the Cougar defense during his sophomore season. Zimmerer was ranked among the top 20 fullbacks in the country by Rivals.com and Scout.com and was listed among the top five players in Nebraska by Rivals.

Zimmerer also played basketball at Gross prior to his senior season and competed for the Cougars' track team. He was one of the first players to join the 2009 recruiting class, committing to the Huskers in May 2008. He is the son of Tim and Jackie Zimmerer and was born on May 23, 1991.