As the Nebraska Cornhuskers gear up for the 2025 football season, several players are poised to make significant impacts on the field. Here are five athletes to watch:
1. Dylan Raiola – Quarterback
Dylan Raiola, a five-star recruit, has garnered attention for his exceptional arm strength and on-field vision. In the 2024 season opener against UTEP, Raiola showcased his talent by completing 15 of 22 passes for 192 yards and two touchdowns. His playing style has drawn comparisons to NFL star Patrick Mahomes, highlighting his potential to lead Nebraska’s offense to new heights.
2. Carter Nelson – Tight End
Carter Nelson, a four-star tight end and the top-ranked player in Nebraska, committed to the Cornhuskers over offers from top programs like Georgia and Notre Dame. Standing at 6-foot-4 and 205 pounds, Nelson is known for his versatility and athleticism, having excelled in multiple sports during high school. His ability to play various positions on offense makes him a valuable asset for Nebraska’s evolving offensive schemes.
3. Isaiah Neyor – Wide Receiver
Isaiah Neyor transferred to Nebraska after a standout season at Wyoming in 2021, where he amassed 848 receiving yards. Despite an injury setback in 2022 and limited play at Texas in 2023, Neyor is now fully healthy and expected to be a primary target in Nebraska’s passing game. His experience and deep-threat capability are anticipated to stretch defenses and create opportunities downfield.
4. Jahmal Banks – Wide Receiver
Jahmal Banks, formerly of Wake Forest, brings consistent performance to Nebraska’s receiving corps, having recorded over 600 receiving yards in each of the past two seasons. Standing at 6-foot-3, Banks provides a reliable target on the outside and is expected to be among the team’s leaders in receptions and receiving yards, offering a dependable option for quarterback Dylan Raiola.
5. Dante Dowdell – Running Back
Dante Dowdell, a transfer from Oregon, was a top-10 running back recruit coming out of high school. At 6-foot-2 and 215 pounds, Dowdell combines size and speed, positioning him as a potential lead back in Nebraska’s offense. With the team’s focus on establishing a strong ground game, Dowdell’s physical running style and vision could see him emerge as the first Nebraska running back to surpass 1,000 rushing yards since 2018.
These five players represent a blend of homegrown talent and strategic acquisitions, each bringing unique skills and potential to the Cornhuskers. As they integrate into the team’s system, their development and performance will be pivotal in shaping Nebraska’s success in the 2025 season and beyond.
