Nebraska Football Eyes Transfer Portal Options at Quarterback Ahead of Key 2026 Competition
The college football transfer portal doesn’t officially open until January 2, but let’s be honest-conversations are already well underway. That’s just how the game works now. Coaches, agents, and players are all working behind the scenes, and Nebraska is no exception as it looks to solidify its quarterback room for the future.
One name that’s been floating around early and often is Dylan Raiola. Even before his name officially enters the portal, there’s buzz about where he could land. That tells you everything you need to know about how active-and competitive-the portal has become.
As for the Huskers, while young quarterback TJ Lateef may very well be the future under center, Nebraska isn’t planning to hand him the job without a fight. Head coach Matt Rhule knows better than to put all his eggs in one basket, especially with a player who hasn’t taken meaningful college snaps yet.
The plan? Bring in a proven veteran to push Lateef and raise the floor of the QB room.
One intriguing possibility is Aidan Chiles. Rhule is reportedly keeping a close eye on the Oregon State transfer, and for good reason.
Chiles brings a strong combination of upside and experience. He’s not a finished product, but he’s got the kind of arm talent and mobility that could thrive in Nebraska’s system.
He’d instantly raise the level of competition and give the Huskers a legitimate option if Lateef isn’t quite ready to take the reins.
Another name that’s surfaced is Kenny Minchey from Notre Dame. He narrowly missed out on the starting job to CJ Carr, and while he’s shown flashes, the question is whether he’d be willing to enter another quarterback battle.
At Nebraska, nothing would be guaranteed. Minchey would have to compete with Lateef head-on, and that might not be the ideal situation for a player looking for a clear path to the field.
Then there’s Dylan Lonergan, who brings a different skill set to the table. After stints at Alabama and Boston College, Lonergan started nine games last season for the Eagles, throwing 12 touchdowns against five interceptions. He’s more of a traditional pocket passer-not the dual-threat type that Nebraska seems to be prioritizing-but he’s got experience and production, which counts for a lot in a young quarterback room.
Keep an eye out for more names as the portal officially opens. One name that would be a game-changer?
Iowa State’s Rocco Becht. He’d be a one-year rental, but a high-impact one.
The kind of addition that could cost a pretty penny in today’s NIL-driven landscape-but could also pay major dividends on the field.
Basketball Doubleheader at Pinnacle Bank Arena: Huskers Look to Stay Hot
While the football team works the phones and evaluates transfer targets, the hardwood at Pinnacle Bank Arena will be buzzing this Sunday with a Nebraska basketball doubleheader.
The women’s team, off to a scorching 11-0 start and ranked No. 21 nationally, will open the day with a matchup against Cal Baptist. Tip-off is set for 11 a.m. on BIG+. Amy Williams’ squad has been rolling, and this game serves as one final tune-up before Big Ten play resumes on December 29 against USC.
The men’s team, led by Fred Hoiberg, follows with a 7 p.m. tip against North Dakota on BTN. The Fighting Hawks come in at 5-9 and are struggling in the Summit League, which is why Nebraska enters as a heavy 29.5-point favorite.
This is exactly the kind of game the Huskers need to sharpen things up before their Big Ten schedule resumes on January 2 against Michigan State. Expect some early rust, but the talent gap should show as the game progresses.
One player to watch? Braden Frager. The freshman has been gaining confidence, and this could be a breakout performance in front of the home crowd.
Bottom line: Sunday’s doubleheader is a chance for both basketball programs to keep momentum rolling, while Nebraska football continues to lay the groundwork for what could be a pivotal offseason in shaping its quarterback future.