Nebraska Football Spring Ball Preview: Five Big Questions Heading Into 2026
It’s hard to believe, but Nebraska football is less than 10 days out from the start of spring practices, kicking off on February 21. And with the spring game set for March 28 - returning after a one-year break - fans will finally get a first look at a revamped Huskers squad that’s undergone some serious offseason changes. From a new-look defense to a quarterback competition with real intrigue, there’s no shortage of storylines as Matt Rhule enters his fourth season at the helm in Lincoln.
Let’s break down five of the biggest questions facing the Huskers as spring ball approaches.
1. Who Takes the Reins at Quarterback?
There’s no bigger question - or storyline - than who will emerge as QB1. All signs point to Anthony Colandrea having the inside track.
He’s experienced, productive, and coming off a standout season that earned him Mountain West Player of the Year honors. This is his third program, and he’s looking more and more like a plug-and-play starter.
But don’t pencil him in just yet.
TJ Lateef has a deeper understanding of the system, and Daniel Kaelin, who spent last season in the program, might have a leg up as well. Both were Elite 11 quarterbacks coming out of high school, and both are hungry to prove they belong.
Colandrea may be the favorite, but this battle could go deeper into spring than some expect - and that’s not a bad thing. Competition at the most important position on the field only sharpens the entire offense.
2. Is There Enough Depth in the Backfield?
One of the more surprising moves - or non-moves - this offseason was Nebraska choosing not to dip into the transfer portal for a running back. That decision raised some eyebrows, especially considering the physical demands of the Big Ten.
But maybe Rhule and GM Pat Stewart saw something others didn’t.
Mekhi Nelson and Isaiah Mozee showed flashes in the bowl game, combining for 216 total yards on just 23 touches. That’s efficiency you can work with. Connor Booth is another name to watch, and if Kwinten Ives can stay healthy, he could be a factor as well.
Last year, many questioned the running back room - and Rhule turned out to be right about Emmett Johnson. Now the staff is betting on internal development again. Spring will be a key proving ground for this group.
3. Can the Offensive Line Turn the Corner?
There’s no sugarcoating it: Nebraska’s offensive line has been a work in progress. The good news? There’s now a mix of experience, potential, and fresh coaching that could finally move the needle.
Tree Babalade brings 15 career starts and finished last season strong at right tackle. At 6-foot-5, 330 pounds, he was rated among the top-20 tackles in the portal - and he looks the part.
Paul Mubenga, with 11 starts under his belt, is another intriguing addition. And Brendan Black, the lone four-star transfer in the class, could push for immediate snaps.
Tyler Knaak is already viewed as a starter-caliber player. If Mubenga can beat him out, that’s a good problem to have. Young talent like Gunnar Gottula, Grant Brix, and Preston Taumua are also in the mix, giving new OL coach Geep Wade a full deck to work with.
This unit has the pieces. Now it’s about putting them together - and spring is where that foundation gets laid.
4. Will the Defensive Line Take a Step Forward?
The Huskers didn’t just reload on the defensive line - they brought in players who can contribute right away. Anthony Jones and Jashear Whittington saw real action at their previous stops. Owen Stoudmire redshirted after three games but has upside if he can stay healthy.
Still, the real leap needs to come from within.
Corey Brown, the new D-line coach, has a reputation for developing talent, and he’ll be tasked with unlocking the potential of guys like Williams Nwaneri, Kade Pietrzak, Malcolm Simpson, Cameron Lenhardt, and Riley Van Poppel. EDGE coach Roy Manning will also play a key role, especially with a player like Willis McGahee IV in the fold.
If this group can take a collective step forward, Nebraska’s defensive front could look much more formidable in 2026.
5. How Will the New Defense Take Shape?
Let’s be clear: the 2026 Huskers defense needs to bounce back. After two straight years in the top 25 in scoring defense, things unraveled late last season. That’s where Rob Aurich comes in.
The new defensive coordinator has a track record of quick turnarounds - from South Dakota to Idaho to San Diego State - and he’ll be expected to bring that same energy to Lincoln.
There’s talent here, especially at linebacker and in the secondary. But everything hinges on the front seven. If the defensive line can hold its own, Aurich’s scheme has the potential to bring the Blackshirts back to form.
Spring will be our first real glimpse of how this unit is coming together - and how aggressive, fast, and disciplined they can be under new leadership.
Final Thoughts
With spring ball just around the corner, Nebraska enters a crucial phase in its development. There’s a new defensive identity forming, a quarterback battle brewing, and a roster full of fresh faces ready to make their mark. Rhule’s fourth year feels like a turning point - and we’ll start to see just how far this team can go when the pads come on later this month.
One thing’s for sure: the Huskers won’t be short on storylines this spring.