Former Husker football standout charged with terroristic threats in Omaha

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — Former Nebraska football player De’Mornay Pierson-El is facing a terroristic threats charge following an incident in Omaha in January.

Pierson-El was arrested on Thursday and made his first court appearance on Friday. His bond was set at $10,000.

On Jan. 8, officers with the Omaha Police Department were sent to Casey’s near 99th and Q streets.

The victim told officers she was involved in a road rage incident with another driver, who she followed to the Papa John’s parking lot down the street.

After an argument, the male — later identified as Pierson-El — pulled up his shirt to reveal a camo handgun that was in his waistband, according to a police report.

Pierson-El then left the area in a red vehicle.

The former wide receiver was a versatile, electrifying performer for Nebraska throughout his career.

He burst onto the scene in 2014, earning All-America honors as a punt returner as a true freshman.

He remained a difference-maker on special teams throughout his career, finishing his career third in Nebraska history with 904 career punt return yards.

Pierson-El also became the 11th player in Nebraska history with 100 career receptions, finishing with exactly 100. He ranked 13th in school history in receiving yardage with 1,309 yards.

In addition to his three career punt return touchdowns, Pierson-El caught 11 touchdown passes and threw for one in his career.

He was drafted by Washington in 2018 but was later waived. He most recently signed with the New Jersey Generals before the team was disbanded in 2023 due to the creation of the United Football League.

Pierson-El’s next court appearance is set for March 2.