As the Nebraska Cornhuskers wrap up their first week of fall camp, anticipation is building for the upcoming college football season. With just a few weeks to go until the first game, let's delve into the projected starting lineup for the Huskers and explore some intriguing position battles.
Offense
Quarterback
The quarterback position is a hot topic, with senior Anthony Colandrea leading the pack. Colandrea, a former UNLV and Virginia standout, is expected to be the starter, but he'll have to hold off competition from sophomores TJ Lateef and Daniel Kaelin. What makes this particularly fascinating is Colandrea's experience and success in the Mountain West, which could give him an edge. Personally, I think his ability to make plays outside the pocket will be a key factor in his favor.
Running Back
Here's where things get interesting. The running back position is up for grabs, with three players in the mix: Isaiah Mozee, Mekhi Nelson, and Jamal Rule. It's a true battle, and it might even extend into the early weeks of the season. Finding a replacement for Emmett Johnson, now with the Kansas City Chiefs, is a tall order, but these young talents are up for the challenge. Rule, in particular, is an exciting prospect and could surprise many with his performance.
Wide Receiver
A more stable situation exists at wide receiver, with Nyziah Hunter, Jacory Barney Jr., and Kwazi Gilmer expected to start. Hunter and Barney Jr. return as proven commodities, while Gilmer brings experience from his time at UCLA. This trio should provide a solid foundation for the offense.
Tight End
Luke Lindenmeyer, a local product from La Vista, Nebraska, is projected to start at tight end for the second consecutive season. His career-best performance last year has him poised for a big 2026. Keep an eye on Carter Nelson, Luke Sorensen, and Janiran Bonner, who could provide depth and versatility at this position.
Offensive Line
The offensive line is a strength for the Huskers, boasting one of the best units on paper in recent memory. Seniors Elijah Pritchett and Justin Evans, both on All-B1G watch, anchor the line. The addition of portal players Tree Babalade, Paul Mubenga, and Brendan Black has filled critical gaps and provided valuable mentorship for younger players. This group has the potential to be a real game-changer.
Defense
Defensive Line
Defensive coordinator Rob Aurich has praised the defensive line's depth and competition. Edge rushers Williams Nwaneri and Cameron Lenhardt are expected to start, with Nwaneri poised for a breakout year. Jahsear Whittington, a Pitt transfer, and Owen Stoudmire, a Boston College transfer, are also in the mix for starting roles. The interior is particularly strong, with Riley Van Poppel at nose tackle and the potential for a starter in Jahsear Whittington.
Linebackers
The linebacker core is a standout group, led by senior transfer Owen Chambliss and junior Vincent Shavers. These two will be key contributors to Nebraska's defensive success in 2026. Dexter Foster, Dawson Merritt, and Will Hawthorne are expected to provide depth and rotational roles.
Defensive Backs
The defensive backs are an intriguing bunch, with a competitive atmosphere created by coach Aurich's desire to field the five best players. Andrew Marshall, a former Idaho transfer, and Dwayne McDougle, a San Diego State transfer, are leaders in the secondary. The CB2 position battle is worth watching, with Jeremiah Charles, Victor Evans III, Danny Odem, Amare Sanders, and Kahmir Prescott all in contention. Donovan Jones is projected to start at the nickel position.
Deeper Analysis
The Huskers' roster is a blend of experienced veterans and exciting young talent. The position battles, especially at running back and cornerback, showcase the depth and competitiveness within the team. It will be fascinating to see how these battles play out and who ultimately earns the starting roles. From my perspective, the offensive line and linebacker core stand out as potential strengths, while the defensive line's depth could be a game-changer.
Conclusion
As we eagerly await the start of the season, the Nebraska Cornhuskers are shaping up to be a formidable force. The projected starting lineup showcases a mix of seasoned players and rising stars, and the position battles add an extra layer of excitement. With a strong offensive line and a talented defense, the Huskers have the potential to make a serious impact in 2026. It's an exciting time for Nebraska football, and I, for one, can't wait to see how these players perform on the field.
