Ball-hawking, versatile NIU safety with proven playmaking
In the 2024 season, Nate Valcarcel was a steady Northern Illinois safety who started all 13 games and produced 52 tackles, 3 interceptions, 8 pass breakups, and 2 sacks, showing range, instincts, and the ability to impact all three levels of the defense.[1][2][8] His value goes beyond the box score: he consistently finds the football, fits the run, and brings enough versatility to pressure the quarterback when needed, which makes him a strong fit for a defense that wants a dependable, disruptive back-end presence.[2][8][11]
