Bruce Edward Nelson (born May 12, 1979) is an American former professional football player who was a guard and center for the Carolina Panthers of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the Iowa Hawkeyes and was selected by the Panthers in the second round of the 2003 NFL draft.
Nelson was born in Emmetsburg, Iowa, and went to Emmetsburg High School as a high ranked academic athlete.
Nelson played college football for the Iowa Hawkeyes. Nelson was 1st team All-American and 1st team All-Big Ten in his senior season in 2002.
Nelson was selected by the Carolina Panthers in the second round of the 2003 NFL draft with the 50th overall pick. His NFL career was limited to two seasons because of hip injuries.
Nelson has also served as an assistant coach for the Emmetsburg High School football team. Bruce married his high school girlfriend Jana. They have 4 children. Nora, Vince, Vera, and Gus Nelson.