Nebraska Cornhuskers Summer Transfer News: Reloading for 2025
As Nebraska Cornhuskers football nears the kickoff of the 2025 campaign, head coach Matt Rhule isn’t just banking on internal growth—he’s leaned heavily on the transfer portal to inject experience, versatility, and high-end talent into Lincoln.
A Heavy Hit from the Portal
Massive Class Turnover
Nebraska has been extraordinarily active in the transfer market. As of mid-January, the Huskers had secured 16 incoming transfers—a class that ranks No. 14 nationally and second in the Big Ten, trailing only UCLA in portal rankings . Meanwhile, the program has seen roughly 26 players exit via the transfer portal this offseason, creating both challenge and opportunity .
High-Leverage Additions to Watch
Offensive Line Bolstered
The biggest individual acquisition: former Alabama offensive tackle Elijah Pritchett. A former five-star, PritchettPritchett brings elite size and experience to a Huskers offensive line that needed reinforcements. In 2024, he started in 11 games at right tackle and even saw time at left tackle before transferring to Nebraska .
Missouri’s Five-Star Transfer
On defense, the Cornhuskers landed Williams Nwaneri, a five-star defensive end out of Missouri. At 6’7″ and still early in development, Meaner I brings elite physical upside and a long runway to Nebraska’s defensive front .
Shoring Up Secondary and LB Corps
Additions such as safety Justyn Rhett (from Georgia), linebacker Marques Watson-Trent, and veteran defensive lineman Jaylen George offer experience and depth across Rhode’s defense . Indeed, insiders believe the 2025 transfer additions—Marques Watson-Trent, Dasan McCullough, Jaylen George, Williams Nwaneri—may well have the most immediate impact on the defense, compared to the 2023 recruits .
Skill Position Reinforcements
Nebraskan offense also welcomed wide receiver Dane Key, a former Kentucky star expected to become a top target in the receiving corps . Equally promising is California’s Nyziah Hunter, who led Cal in receiving with 578 yards and 5 touchdowns before entering the portal; he too is expected to bolster the Huskers’ aerial attack .
Early Reports & Position Forecasts
Quarterback Room Additions
Transfer quarterback Marcos Davila is likely slated as the No. 3 signal-caller behind Raiola and Gramstad early in 2025, giving depth and versatility to Nebraska’s offense .
Receiver Room Depth
Dane Key, particularly, has “lived up to the early billing” and looks to lead Nebraska in receiving yards this season .
Special Teams Moves
Nebraska also dip into the portal for specialists, bringing in kicker Kyle Cunanan from Cal/Charlotte. He appears to be contesting the starting job—but with early momentum in his favor .
Culture & Coaching Impact
Behind this flurry, coach Matt Rhule’s ethos remains front and center. A recent profile portrays him as enthusiastic, emotionally engaged, and forging a resilient culture of accountability—with players like Javin Wright and punter Archie Wilson benefiting from his authenticity .
Meanwhile, the overall two-week-out vibe is electric: Husker football is just weeks from roaring back, and transfers are expected to play starring roles across the roster .
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Bottom Line
Nebraska’s 2025 transfer strategy feels bold, purposeful, and game-plan oriented. By adding veteran talent across the offensive line, defense, wide receiver corps, and special teams, the Huskers have constructed a roster that blends homegrown development with immediate-impact transfers. As Coach Rhule enters his pivotal third season, it’s clear he’s expecting this infusion to
help catalyze Nebraska’s return to relevance.
