Nebraska’s 2025 transfer portal class has garnered significant attention, particularly with high-profile additions like wide receivers Dane Key and Nyziah Hunter. However, amidst these headline-grabbing transfers, three under-the-radar players—offensive tackle Elijah Pritchett, quarterback Marcos Davila, and wide receiver Hardley Gilmore—present intriguing potential to make substantial impacts on the Cornhuskers’ upcoming season.
Elijah Pritchett: The High-Ceiling Offensive Tackle
Elijah Pritchett’s journey from a five-star recruit at Alabama to transferring to Nebraska is noteworthy. Standing at 6-foot-6 and weighing 312 pounds, Pritchett possesses the prototypical size and athleticism for an offensive tackle. During the 2024 season, he appeared in 13 games for the Crimson Tide, starting 11 at right tackle and one at left tackle. Despite his physical gifts, Pritchett’s tenure at Alabama was marked by inconsistency, leading to his decision to seek a fresh start.
At Nebraska, Pritchett has the opportunity to solidify the offensive line under the guidance of offensive line coach Donovan Raiola. If he can harness his potential and achieve consistency, Pritchett could become a cornerstone of the Cornhuskers’ offensive front, providing quarterback Dylan Raiola with the protection needed to execute offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen’s schemes effectively. However, his previous struggles raise questions about his ability to adapt and thrive in a new environment.
Marcos Davila: The Record-Breaking Quarterback
Marcos Davila’s transfer to Nebraska adds depth and competition to the quarterback room. A former four-star recruit from Legacy High School in Texas, Davila set school records with 9,131 passing yards and 93 touchdown passes. Initially committing to Purdue, he redshirted his freshman year amid a challenging season for the Boilermakers.
Davila’s decision to join Nebraska aligns him with offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen, known for his quarterback-friendly systems. While incumbent starter Dylan Raiola showed promise last season, his 10 interceptions indicate room for improvement. Davila’s presence introduces healthy competition, potentially pushing Raiola to elevate his performance. Alternatively, if Davila impresses during spring practices, he could challenge for the starting role, adding an element of uncertainty to the quarterback position. This dynamic could either invigorate the offense or lead to a contentious battle that disrupts team cohesion.
Hardley Gilmore: The Speedster Wide Receiver
Hardley Gilmore’s transfer from Kentucky brings a blend of speed and potential to Nebraska’s receiving corps. A former four-star recruit and two-sport athlete in football and track, Gilmore’s freshman year was hampered by an early-season injury. Despite this setback, he showcased his big-play ability by averaging 25.5 yards per catch over six receptions, totaling 153 yards and a touchdown in the final five games of the season.
At 6-foot-1 and 180 pounds, Gilmore’s agility and track speed make him a deep-threat option. However, his limited college experience raises questions about his readiness to contribute consistently at the Big Ten level. If he can develop his route-running skills and build rapport with the quarterbacks, Gilmore could emerge as a sleeper addition who stretches defenses and opens up underneath routes for other receivers. Conversely, if his development stalls, he risks being overshadowed by more established players, rendering his transfer a minimal impact move.
Conclusion
While marquee transfers often dominate headlines, the success of a team’s transfer portal strategy frequently hinges on the contributions of less-heralded players. Elijah Pritchett, Marcos Davila, and Hardley Gilmore each bring unique talents and potential to Nebraska. Their development and integration into the team could significantly influence the Cornhuskers’ performance in the upcoming season. However, their past challenges and the inherent uncertainties of player transitions introduce elements of controversy and unpredictability. As the season unfolds, these sleeper additions may either validate the coaching staff’s strategic decisions or prompt scrutiny over the efficacy of their transfer evaluations.
