The Nebraska Cornhuskers have made significant adjustments to their offensive roster following the recent transfer portal cycle, which saw the addition of six new players. With the window for players to enter the portal closing soon, it is crucial to evaluate how these changes impact each position group in preparation for the upcoming 2026 season.
As the Huskers faced the challenge of replacing six starters on offense, they actively sought to strengthen their lineup. Ending the previous season ranked 82nd among 136 eligible FBS teams in total yardage, improvement was essential. Although the portal entry deadline is approaching, Nebraska can still sign players already in the portal after that date, although most of the high-profile prospects have already committed elsewhere.
The quarterback position raised concerns when the Huskers were left with only one scholarship player shortly after the portal opened. However, Nebraska made strategic moves to bolster this critical position. The departures of former starter Dylan Raiola and third-string quarterback Marcos Davila heightened the urgency. In response, the coaching staff brought in Anthony Colandrea, who appears poised to compete for the starting job alongside TJ Lateef and Daniel Kaelin. Additionally, the commitment of three-star prospect Tanner Vibabul for the 2026 class adds further depth.
Moving to the running back position, the departure of standout Emmett Johnson to the draft has left a significant void. Currently, Mekhi Nelson is expected to step into the starting role, but the Huskers may adopt a committee approach with other promising young players. While EJ Barthel successfully developed Johnson into an All-American, the upcoming challenge will be nurturing the next generation of backs. It is surprising that the coaching staff did not pursue a ready-made replacement in the portal, yet they seem focused on enhancing the offensive line to create better running lanes.
In the tight end department, Nebraska experienced minimal turnover, losing only Heinrich Haarberg to graduation. Retention of players like Luke Lindenmeyer and Carter Nelson bodes well for the position. Lindenmeyer, an Honorable Mention All-Big Ten player, and Nelson, a highly regarded recruit, provide a solid foundation. This unit did not see any additions from the portal, but the expectation is that their roles will expand in the revamped offensive scheme.
The return of Janiran Bonner will be a significant boost to the wide receiver group. After a season-ending injury in the opener, Bonner”s presence is expected to enhance the offense substantially—an aspect that has gone largely unnoticed. The addition of Kwazi Gilmer from the transfer portal adds another dynamic element, with the Huskers poised to field three receivers who have all led their teams in receptions at various points in their careers. The group, consisting of Gilmer, Jacory Barney, and Nyziah Hunter, is anticipated to be one of the strongest on the roster.
Finally, the offensive line has undergone considerable changes, with three starters departing and a new position coach coming onboard. The additions of Brendan Black, Tree Babalade, and Paul Mubenga address immediate needs and add substantial size to the lineup. With several players weighing over 300 pounds, the Huskers aim to build a more formidable line. The depth chart also includes experienced players like Gunna Gottula and Sam Sledge, who are expected to take on larger roles in the season ahead.
The combination of new talent and the development of returning players positions Nebraska well as they look to improve their offensive performance in 2026. With the coaching staff in place and players ready to step up, fans can anticipate a more effective offense next season.
