The first week of December has ushered in significant changes for the Nebraska Cornhuskers, and not all of the changes boasted hope. Over ten players, including key starters like linebacker Mikai Gbayor and defensive lineman Jimari Butler, have declared their intent to transfer. While it’s rare for players to return after entering the transfer portal, Butler’s return two years ago under head coach Matt Rhule is a noteworthy exception. Even more uncommon was running back Emmett Johnson’s decision to stay with Nebraska, announced just three days after he declared his intent to transfer.
The transfer portal officially opened on Monday, turning declarations into actionable decisions not only for departing players but also for teams with the resources to recruit them. Offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen expects 20 to 30 transfers to visit Lincoln, although he clarifies, “We’re not going to take that many but we’re going to bring that many in to be able to fill the spots that we need to be able to change our team. I look forward to that process.”
With NCAA rules now stipulating that Nebraska has to trim their roster size by nearly 40 players, once a player enters the portal they may not have a home if they do decide to come back. Before it was a bargaining chip to gain more in NIL or to test the waters to see who bites. Now the waters may be barren and there may not be land anywhere in sight if a player enters the portal without clear intentions.
Coach Rhule has warned that the number of departures could total up to 50, leaving the team with significant gaps to fill. These gaps will not all need to be filled as some of the players did not or will not be contributing to the team on Saturdays next fall, But the positions that need filled, need filled badly. Positions like linebacker, defensive line, wide receiver and defensive back are at a place of extreme uncertainty for Nebraska,
Nebraska is preparing to be an aggressive player in the transfer portal market. This includes seeking talent for all positions, notably quarterback, as the team lacks a clear backup for rising sophomore Dylan Raiola. With true freshman Daniel Kaelin planning to transfer, the Huskers are eyeing prospects like composite four-star quarterback TJ Lateef from their 2025 recruiting class.
Even though the portal closes in late December, teams can continue adding transfers into January, aligning with academic calendars. UNL classes start on January 21, allowing for continued recruitment.
Potential Husker Portal Targets:
• Kentucky Receiver Dane Key: His transfer follows the hiring of his position coach, Daikiel Shorts, by Nebraska. Key, who made 47 catches for 715 yards and two touchdowns this season, will help fill the void left by senior wideouts Isaiah Neyor and Jahmal Banks.
• Fresno State Linebacker Phoenix Jackson: A top-graded linebacker by Pro Football Focus, Jackson recorded 49 tackles and four sacks this season. His one year of eligibility would bridge the gap for Nebraska’s incoming 2025 class.
• Houston Running Back Parker Jenkins: A former recruit of Holgorsen, Jenkins had a standout 2023 season but struggled in 2024 after his coach was fired. With Gabe Ervin transferring and Rahmir Johnson’s eligibility exhausted, Jenkins could rejuvenate the Huskers’ running game.
• Louisville Defensive Back Devin Neal: With his best season in 2023, Neal is a seasoned player Nebraska has reportedly contacted. His experience would be invaluable to the Husker’s defensive lineup.
With attrition falling upon the Huskers through the outgoing transfer portal, I wouldn’t be too worried. Rhule and staff know what needs filled and what we can’t live without on the roster and they will not let the Huskers take the field in August with inferior talent.
