The Nebraska football team's transfer portal activity has been a whirlwind, with 20 players exploring new opportunities, including three former starters. As the 2026 off-season unfolds, let's delve into where these Huskers ended up and the potential impact on future schedules.
Dylan Raiola's Big Ten Adventure
After two seasons as Nebraska's starting quarterback, Dylan Raiola is heading to the Pacific Northwest, staying within the Big Ten Conference. Raiola, with two years of eligibility and a potential redshirt year, initially considered non-Big Ten programs but ultimately chose Oregon. His freshman year was impressive, completing 67% of passes for 2,819 yards and 13 touchdowns, setting program records. As a sophomore, Raiola led Nebraska to a 6-3 record before an injury ended his season. With Oregon's current starter, Dante Moore, returning for the 2026 season, Raiola might utilize his redshirt year, similar to Moore's path. Nebraska is scheduled to face the Ducks in Eugene on October 17, a potential reunion.
Malcolm Hartzog's Desert Finale
Malcolm Hartzog, a defensive back, will finish his college career in the desert with the Arizona Wildcats. Hartzog, a four-year Husker, made 22 starts, accumulating 108 tackles, 13 pass breakups, and eight interceptions. His heroic interception in the season opener against Cincinnati sealed a victory. After an injury in the second game, Hartzog opted for surgery and a redshirt, joining Arizona for his final season.
Keona Davis Bolsters Miami's Pass Rush
Keona Davis, a starter on Nebraska's defensive line, has committed to Miami, the national runner-up, to bolster their pass rush. Davis, a two-time transfer portal entrant, chose Miami over Nebraska, bringing his 32 tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss, and 1.5 sacks to the Hurricanes. He was a Blackshirt with 11 starts in 2025 and showed consistent improvement.
Kenneth Williams Returns Home with Michigan State
Kenneth Williams, an All-Big Ten honoree, has found a new home with the Michigan State Spartans. Williams, a running back and kick return specialist, was a standout on special teams, averaging over 32 yards per return. He made game-changing plays, including an 85-yard return against Maryland and a 95-yard touchdown return against Northwestern. Williams, a Detroit native, returns to his home state after high school football in Michigan, facing his former team on September 26 in East Lansing.
Houston Kaahaaina-Torres Joins Michigan's Offensive Line
Geep Wade's Michigan Wolverines have added Houston Kaahaaina-Torres, an interior offensive lineman, to their roster. Kaahaaina-Torres, a three-star recruit, redshirted at Nebraska, preserving four years of eligibility. He was a top player in Hawaii, helping his high school team to a state championship. Kaahaaina-Torres will join a reloading Wolverines program.
Maverick Noonan and Preston Okafor Head to Fresno State
Nebraska legacy Maverick Noonan, a linebacker, has committed to Fresno State. Noonan, the son of former Husker Danny Noonan, played in seven games for Nebraska, registering two tackles and a fumble recovery. He missed the 2023 season due to injury. Preston Okafor, a defensive back, also joined Fresno State, having played in two games for Nebraska. Both players will have two years of eligibility remaining.
Jaylen George's Third Stop: Tulsa
Jaylen George, a defensive lineman, has found his third college football home with Tulsa. George, who played at the FCS level and then at Nebraska, recorded three tackles and one quarterback hurry in seven games for the Huskers. He started 23 games at East Tennessee State, with impressive stats. George will have one season of eligibility as a redshirt senior with Tulsa.
Jason Maciejczak Heads West to Wyoming
Jason Maciejczak, an offensive lineman, has transferred to Wyoming after three seasons with Nebraska. Maciejczak, a highly-rated recruit from South Dakota, played in nine games for the Huskers. He was originally a defensive lineman but converted to the offensive line during his redshirt year. Maciejczak's decision to leave was influenced by the departure of offensive line coach Donovan Raiola.
Tristan Alvano's Legacy at Nebraska
Placekicker Tristan Alvano, a former Omaha Westside Warrior, has committed to South Dakota State. Alvano contributed to Nebraska's special teams, making 9 of 15 field goals as a freshman and all 27 PAT attempts. He holds the record for the longest field goal by a freshman in program history, a 55-yarder against Purdue in 2023. Alvano's departure leaves a mark on the Huskers' record books.
Marcos Davila's Journey Continues at Abilene Christian
Marcos Davila, a former Texas prep star and Purdue transfer, has committed to Abilene Christian. Davila played in two games for Nebraska, finding time against Akron and Houston Christian. His journey continues in the transfer portal.
Caden VerMaas Heads to Rice
Caden VerMaas, an Omaha native defensive back, has committed to Rice. VerMaas, an all-around player in high school, played in two games for Nebraska while maintaining a redshirt. He will have four years of eligibility remaining.
Jamarion Parker and Brice Turner Seek New Homes
Redshirt running back Jamarion Parker and defensive back Brice Turner are still seeking new homes in college football. Parker, a top prospect, did not play in a game this past season, while Turner played in limited games. Both have yet to announce their next destinations.
Rahmir Stewart's Pennsylvania Pipeline
Rahmir Stewart, a defensive back from Philadelphia, is part of Matt Rhule's Pennsylvania pipeline. Stewart, who redshirted in 2023 and played in limited games, is still seeking his next spot in college football.
Willis McGahee IV and Larry Tarver Jr. Return to Nebraska
Willis McGahee IV, an edge defender, and Larry Tarver Jr., a cornerback, have both returned to Nebraska after brief stints in the transfer portal. McGahee, a Miami native, played in 12 games as a true freshman, while Tarver, a four-star prospect, redshirted and played in three games.
Dylan Parrott and Braylen Prude Stay with Nebraska
Dylan Parrott, a defensive tackle, and Braylen Prude, a safety, have both withdrawn from the transfer portal and will remain with Nebraska. Parrott, a returning depth piece, played in three games as a redshirt freshman, while Prude, an under-the-radar prospect, redshirted and played in limited games.
As the off-season progresses, Nebraska football's transfer portal activity provides an intriguing glimpse into the future, with potential reunions and new challenges ahead.
