The Nebraska Huskers are experiencing a significant player exodus, with 20 names entering the transfer portal, including some surprising departures. But where did these talented athletes end up, and what does this mean for the team's future?
Dylan Raiola, the former starting quarterback, is staying in the Big Ten, joining the Oregon Ducks. After two impressive seasons with Nebraska, Raiola will now compete in the Pacific Northwest. With two years of eligibility and a possible redshirt season, he's a valuable addition to coach Dan Lanning's program. But here's where it gets interesting: Nebraska is scheduled to face Oregon in Eugene during the 2026 season. Will Raiola lead the Ducks to victory over his former team?
Malcolm Hartzog, a defensive back, will finish his college football journey in the desert, joining the Arizona Wildcats. Hartzog made a heroic interception in the 2025 season opener, sealing the win against Cincinnati. However, an injury cut his final season short, and he now seeks a fresh start in Arizona.
Keona Davis, a defensive lineman, has committed to the Miami Hurricanes, leaving Nebraska after two off-seasons in the transfer portal. Davis, a former full-time starter, will bolster Miami's pass rush. With two years of eligibility remaining, he's a significant addition to the national runner-up's defense.
Kenneth Williams, an All-Big Ten running back and kick return specialist, has found a new home at Michigan State. Williams, a Lincoln High School graduate, returns to his home state after three seasons with Nebraska. He will face his former team on September 26, adding an intriguing storyline to the game.
Houston Kaahaaina-Torres, an interior offensive lineman, has committed to the Michigan Wolverines. The Honolulu native joins a program that finished 9-4 overall and 7-2 in the Big Ten Conference. Kaahaaina-Torres will add depth to the offensive line, which is being revamped by coach Geep Wade.
Maverick Noonan, a Nebraska legacy and son of former Husker Danny Noonan, has committed to Fresno State. Noonan, a linebacker, will join former Huskers Preston Okafor and Elkhorn South alum Jaydon Sutko. With two years of eligibility remaining, he will look to make an impact at Fresno State.
Preston Okafor, a defensive back, has also chosen Fresno State as his new home. After two years in Lincoln, Okafor will have three years of eligibility remaining. He joins former teammate Maverick Noonan, creating a Nebraska reunion in California.
Jaylen George, a defensive lineman, has committed to Tulsa. George, who previously played at East Tennessee State, will have one season of eligibility remaining as a redshirt senior. He adds depth to the Tulsa defensive line after three seasons at the FCS level and one season with Nebraska.
Jason Maciejczak, an offensive lineman, has moved to the Mountain West, joining the Wyoming Cowboys. Maciejczak, a highly-rated recruit, decided to transfer after three seasons with Nebraska, following the departure of offensive line coach Donovan Raiola. He will have two years of eligibility remaining and is expected to make an impact at Wyoming.
Tristan Alvano, a placekicker, has committed to South Dakota State. Alvano had a strong start at Nebraska, going 9-of-15 on field goals as a true freshman. He leaves the Huskers with a record-breaking 55-yard field goal against Purdue in 2023. And this is the part most people miss: Alvano's departure leaves a significant hole in Nebraska's special teams unit.
Marcos Davila, a quarterback, has committed to Abilene Christian. Davila, a former Texas prep star and Purdue transfer, will have a chance to compete for the starting role. He joins Dylan Raiola as the second quarterback to leave Nebraska during the 2026 offseason.
Caden VerMaas, a defensive back, has committed to Rice. VerMaas, an Omaha native, was the first Husker to announce his transfer plans. He will have four years of eligibility remaining and is expected to make an impact at Rice.
Jamarion Parker, a highly-rated running back prospect, is still searching for a new home. Parker, a four-star recruit, did not play in a game during the 2025 season but is a top talent. His decision is highly anticipated, and fans are curious about his next move.
Brice Turner, a young defensive back, has entered the transfer portal. Turner, who converted from wide receiver, played in all 13 games as a key special teams member in 2025. His next destination is yet to be announced, leaving fans wondering where he will land.
Rahmir Stewart, a defensive back, is also seeking a new team. Stewart, a Pennsylvania native, has two years of eligibility remaining. His decision is eagerly awaited, as he was one of Matt Rhule's original recruits.
Willis McGahee IV, an edge defender, briefly entered the transfer portal but quickly returned to Nebraska. McGahee, a Miami native, will look to make a bigger impact in his third season with the Huskers.
Larry Tarver Jr., a defensive back, has withdrawn from the transfer portal and will remain with Nebraska. Tarver, a four-star prospect, played in three games in 2025 and will add depth to the Huskers' secondary.
Dylan Parrott, a defensive tackle, has also decided to stay with Nebraska. Parrott, a returning depth piece, will have one season remaining as a redshirt senior. His decision to stay is a boost to the Huskers' defensive line.
Braylen Prude, a safety, has withdrawn from the transfer portal and will continue his career at Nebraska. Prude, an under-the-radar prospect, will have three seasons of eligibility remaining. His return adds depth to the Huskers' defensive backfield.
The Nebraska Huskers' transfer portal activity has been eventful, with some players finding new homes and others returning. As the team prepares for the 2026 season, fans are eager to see how these changes will impact the team's performance. Will Nebraska rise to the challenge, or will they face familiar foes turned rivals? Only time will tell.
