[3] As a junior, Nelson was named second-team All-Big Eight by the Associated Press (AP) and as a senior was tabbed first-team.
[8] Shortly after the Super Bowl, Nelson was diagnosed with Hodgkin's disease, and sat out the 1987 season.
His Hodgkin's disease returned in 1989, forcing him to sit out yet another season, although he did help to coach the team's offensive line.
"[1][2] In 1989, Nelson was the recipient of the George Halas Award, given by the Pro Football Writers of America (PFWA) to an NFL player, coach or staff member who overcomes the most adversity to succeed.
[2] Nelson went on to work in the financial services industry, and in 1993 published an autobiography, "Life on the Line".