Nebraska’s Post-Raiola Quarterback Search: Five Transfer Portal Targets to Watch
Dylan Raiola’s departure from Nebraska has left a noticeable void in the Huskers’ quarterback room-and with the transfer portal set to officially open on January 2, the timing couldn’t be more critical. While the list of available signal-callers isn’t exactly overflowing with elite, plug-and-play starters, there are still some intriguing names already signaling their intent to move. And for a team like Nebraska, which is navigating a pivotal moment in its rebuild, the right quarterback addition could mean everything.
Whether Nebraska is looking for a true starter, a high-upside developmental piece, or a steady veteran to push TJ Lateef in spring and fall camp, there are options worth exploring. Let’s break down five quarterbacks who could be on the Huskers’ radar as potential Raiola replacements-and what each brings to the table.
1. Colton Joseph - Old Dominion
If Nebraska is leaning toward a dual-threat quarterback who can keep defenses honest with both his arm and legs, Colton Joseph might be one of the most compelling options in the portal. Over three seasons at Old Dominion, Joseph put together a stat line that jumps off the page: 4,251 passing yards, 32 touchdowns, and 15 interceptions, while adding 1,654 rushing yards and 24 scores on the ground.
That’s not just production-that’s versatility. And in a Big Ten landscape that’s increasingly valuing mobility at the quarterback position, Joseph fits the mold.
While there’s buzz that he may be SEC-bound, Nebraska would be wise to at least make the call. With Raiola gone and Lateef still developing, Joseph could be a dynamic fit in a system that rewards improvisation and athleticism.
2. Kenny Minchey - Notre Dame
Minchey’s name might not carry the same weight as some others in this cycle, but don’t let that fool you-there’s a lot to like here. He spent this past season in one of the most competitive quarterback rooms in the country at Notre Dame, and while he didn’t win the starting job, he made the most of limited opportunities.
In 2025, Minchey completed 20 of 26 passes for 196 yards, while also showing off some mobility with 84 rushing yards and a touchdown on just seven carries. Those aren’t eye-popping numbers, but they do suggest efficiency and poise-two traits Nebraska could use in a young quarterback room. Wisconsin has reportedly shown interest, but if the Huskers want a player with Power Five experience and a chip on his shoulder, Minchey is worth a serious look.
3. Sam Leavitt - Arizona State
This one’s a bit of a full-circle moment. Nebraska was in on Sam Leavitt back in December 2023 when he was transferring from Michigan State. That pursuit cooled once Raiola came into the picture, but now that Leavitt is back in the portal after a stint at Arizona State, the timing might be right.
Leavitt is one of the more high-profile names expected to be available, and he’ll have plenty of suitors. But Nebraska has the NIL resources and a compelling pitch: a wide-open quarterback competition and a system that could showcase his talents. If there’s mutual interest, this could be one of the most exciting additions Nebraska could make.
4. Brendan Sorsby - Cincinnati
Nebraska fans already got a firsthand look at Brendan Sorsby in the season opener-and while he didn’t light it up that day, his full body of work in 2025 tells a different story. Sorsby threw for 2,800 yards, 27 touchdowns, and just five interceptions, while also adding 580 yards and nine scores on the ground.
That’s the kind of production that turns heads, and it’s no surprise he’s drawing interest from programs like Texas Tech. Still, Nebraska should be in the mix here.
Sorsby brings experience, efficiency, and dual-threat ability. He might not be the flashiest name in the portal, but he’s proven he can move the ball and take care of it-two things that matter a lot in the Big Ten.
5. Aidan Chiles - Michigan State
Chiles’ 2025 season didn’t go according to plan. He was benched late in the year, and with his head coach out the door, it’s fair to wonder how much of that was on him versus the instability around him. But make no mistake-Chiles still has upside.
Originally a top recruit for Oregon State, Chiles has the raw tools that made him a coveted prospect out of high school. Nebraska might view him more as a depth piece or insurance policy behind Lateef, but that doesn’t mean he couldn’t push for the starting job if he clicks in spring ball. Sometimes a change of scenery is all it takes to unlock a player’s potential, and Chiles could be a sneaky-good addition if the Huskers are looking to build competition in the room.
Final Thoughts
The transfer portal isn’t always about finding the next superstar-it’s about finding the right fit. With Raiola gone, Nebraska has a chance to reshape its quarterback room in a way that aligns with its offensive identity and long-term vision. Whether that means landing a proven dual-threat like Colton Joseph, a high-upside project like Chiles, or a steady competitor like Minchey or Sorsby, the Huskers have options.
The key now is timing, evaluation, and making the right pitch. Because in today’s college football landscape, one quarterback can change everything.