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Key Northwestern Players Confirmed Out Against Rutgers
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- Key Northwestern Players Confirmed Out Against Rutgers
Northwestern football will once again be without several important contributors as the Wildcats prepare to take on Rutgers on Saturday morning at New Ryan Field.
According to the official pregame availability report, Northwestern has ruled out 13 players for the matchup, including several key starters and contributors on both sides of the ball.
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Among the most concerning absences are star safety Robert Fitzgerald, defensive lineman Brendan Flakes and tight end Luke Dehnicke.
Sep 19, 2026; Evanston, Illinois, USA; Northwestern Wildcats defensive back Robert Fitzgerald (6) tries to tackle Colorado Buffaloes running back DeKalon Taylor (20) during the first half at Northwestern Medicine Field at Martin Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images
Fitzgerald will miss his second consecutive game after sitting out Northwestern's thrilling 24-21 road victory over Michigan State last weekend.
The fifth-year safety has been one of the Wildcats' most important defensive players this season, recently earning midseason All-American honors from both the Associated Press and On3.
His absence was noticeable against Michigan State, as Northwestern's defense experienced several difficult stretches before ultimately finding a way to secure the victory.
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Another significant loss is Flakes, who delivered one of the biggest plays in last week's comeback win.
With Michigan State threatening to take the lead late in the fourth quarter, Flakes blocked a crucial field goal attempt, giving Northwestern an opportunity to put together its game-winning drive.
His absence creates another challenge for a Wildcats defensive unit already dealing with injuries.
Offensively, Northwestern will once again be without Dehnicke, who has emerged as an important receiving target for quarterback Aidan Chiles under offensive coordinator Chip Kelly.
Dehnicke has demonstrated his ability to make explosive plays in the passing game, including his impressive seven-catch, 140-yard performance against Indiana earlier this season.
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Northwestern's injury report also includes offensive linemen Ezomo Oratokhai, David Anchondo and Jacob Miller, along with defensive back Josh Fussell and several other contributors.
Northwestern players ruled out against Rutgers:
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DB Robert Fitzgerald
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DB Josh Fussell
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DL Brendan Flakes
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RB Daniel Anderson
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LB Max Mohring
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LB Jason Reynolds II
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DL Callen Campbell
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LB Qayvier Johnson
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OL David Anchondo
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OL Ezomo Oratokhai
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OL Jacob Miller
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TE Chris Petrucci
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TE Luke Dehnicke
Despite the growing injury concerns, Northwestern enters Saturday's matchup with a 5-1 record and plenty of momentum following three consecutive victories.
Head coach David Braun has consistently emphasized the importance of players stepping up when their opportunities arrive, and Saturday will provide another test of that mentality.
The Wildcats have already shown they can overcome adversity, but with a challenging stretch of the schedule approaching, getting key contributors healthy remains an important priority.
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Northwestern will face Oregon , Iowa and Ohio State in the coming weeks, making the health of players like Fitzgerald and Dehnicke particularly important.
For now, the Wildcats must focus on taking care of business against Rutgers, even with several familiar faces unavailable.
And once again, Northwestern's depth will be put to the test.
