Three Huskers Chosen in NFL Draft

Lincoln -- Three University of Nebraska standouts were chosen in the 2000 NFL Draft which took place in New York City, April 15 and 16, marking the 31st straight year that three or more Huskers were selected.

All-America rover Mike Brown was the first Husker drafted, as he was taken by Chicago Bears with the eighth pick of the second round (No. 39 overall). Brown, the third Husker defensive back in the last four years to go in the first two rounds of the NFL draft, led Nebraska in tackles for three straight years and finished second in school history with 287 tackles. In 1998, he set a school record for defensive backs with 102 tackles. Last season, he finished with 96 tackles, six forced fumbles and five interceptions, leading the Huskers in all three categories.

The Green Bay Packers selected defensive tackle Steve Warren with the 12th pick of the third round (No. 74 overall). Last season, Warren earned All-Big 12 honors as he recording 45 tackles, including 16 for loss, and seven sacks. A two-year starter, Warren finished his career with 96 tackles, including 18 tackles for loss, and 8.5 sacks.

All-America cornerback Ralph Brown was the final Husker to be selected, as he was chosen with the 11th pick of the fifth round (No. 140 overall) by the New York Giants. Brown became the only non-kicker since World War II to start every game in a four-year career and holds the Nebraska record for passes broken up in a career with 50. The 16 pass breakups as a senior broke his own record of 14 set in 1998. A three-time All-Big 12 selection, Brown was a Thorpe Award semifinalist and a first-team All-American in 1999.

In addition, three other Husker defensive standouts signed free agent contracts following the draft. Tony Ortiz signed with the Dallas Cowboys, while Eric Johnson and Julius Jackson both signed with the Oakland Raiders.