Which Huskers have stood out in the Spring? Several Cornhuskers have done a great job in both individual drills and team reps.
Dylan Raiola
In his first season at Nebraska, Raiola established himself as the Huskers’ leader at quarterback. Not only did he lead the Cornhuskers to a 6-6 record. It also allowed them to claim a bowl victory against Boston College in the Pinstripe Bowl. In addition, he also broke several records. As a freshman, he passed for 2,823 yards. This effort allowed him to surpass Adrian Martinez’s freshman record. Can he lift the program up to greater heights in his sophomore season? Nebraska quarterbacks coach Glenn Thomas seems to think so. In his second spring with the Huskers, Thomas claimed that “Raiola’s at a different stage in his process.” His familiarity with Dana Holgorsen’s scheme has allowed him to “grow as a leader in other areas.” Jalyn Gramstad can also provide depth. After having conversations with Rhule, he decided to come back to Lincoln. This should benefit the Huskers’ quarterback room. In his sixth year, Gramstad has gotten to know the playbook inside and out. This hasn’t shown up during spring football at Nebraska. However, it has helped him mentor other quarterbacks. According to Inside Nebraska, both (Marcos) Davila and (TJ) Lateef,” have picked up the offense pretty quickly.”
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— Nebraska Football (@HuskerFootball) April 6, 2025
Kwinten Ives
Mekhi Nelson is a name to know. The redshirt freshman from Pennsylvania is quickly climbing up the ranks in EJ Barthel’s running back room. And it’s all because of his grit on the scout team. Rhule has seen the 185-pounder run against the Blackshirts and make elite plays. He’s also really fast. This has worked out in his favor, but he didn’t get much playing time last year. Against UTEP, he had one carry for two yards. Kwinten Ives is also in the mix as well. According to EJ Barthel, this “is the best he has seen him”. Since the New Jersey native has been on campus, Ives has gotten up to 215 pounds. Even more impressive? He hasn’t lost any speed. This should allow Ives to be effective in Holgorsen’s offense.
Read more about Ives in Key Players: Nebraska’s Offense
Cortez Mills
Nebraska’s wide receiver room has been upgraded in spring football. After transferring from Kentucky this offseason, Dane Key has become the leader in the clubhouse. Nyziah Hunter also adds a veteran presence. But don’t count out Cortez Mills either. According to Holgorsen, the Florida native has had “the highest success rate on individual drills.” It isn’t easy for Nebraska’s defensive backs to corral him. The only thing that’s holding Mills back is his body. The 175-pounder isn’t very strong, but he makes up for it with his effort on the field. There’s certainly a spot open on the roster. Hardley Gilmore was dismissed from the team.
Willis McGahee IV
The sophomore has stood out under Rob Dvoracek. In year two, the Miami native is looking to take the next step. In just 13 games, McGahee had eight tackles, two forced fumbles, and a sack. This type of production sets him up for a big 2025. He’s also done the work in the weight room. According to Husker Extra, McGahee has “slimmed down to 236 pounds.” This puts him in an ideal spot to get to 240 pounds by fall. His only weakness seems to be his pass coverage. However, it seems that he can make up for it. McGahee has more knowledge of the playbook in his second year. Will this allow him to crack the starting lineup? The Huskers have two talented options in Marques-Watson Trent and Dasan McCullough.
Main Image: Dylan Widger-Imagn Images
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