Full Breakdown
Nebraska's Offensive Line Rebuilding Efforts for 2026 Season
2/20/2026, 12:36:45 PM
Core Event: Rebuilding the Offensive Line Through Transfers
As the Nebraska Cornhuskers prepare for the 2026 spring practice, the team's offensive line is undergoing significant changes aimed at improving performance after two consecutive 7-6 seasons. Center Justin Evans, a key player on the line, highlighted the arrival of three transfer linemen and a new offensive line coach, Geep Wade, as pivotal to the team's strategy moving forward.
New Additions to the Lineup
The Huskers have recruited three offensive linemen from the transfer portal: Brendan Black from Iowa State, Tree Babalade from South Carolina, and Paul Mubenga from LSU. Black, a senior, started 10 games at right guard in 2025, while Babalade, a junior, made five starts at right tackle. Mubenga also contributed significantly, starting six games at left guard. These additions are expected to enhance the team's depth and skill level, as noted by Evans, who emphasized the importance of competition among the players.
Leadership and Team Cohesion
Evans, who has started all 13 games in the previous season, is stepping into a leadership role, focusing on building relationships with his new teammates. He remarked on the importance of fostering a cohesive unit, stating, “I think we’re definitely ahead of the game.” He also mentioned the positive adaptation of transfer players to the team's culture, indicating that they have been welcomed as family.
Elijah Pritchett, a left tackle who transferred from Alabama, has also shown growth, according to Evans. Pritchett started eight games last season and has benefited from Evans' mentorship. Evans believes that every player, regardless of their background, must prove themselves to earn playing time, reinforcing the competitive spirit within the team.
Coaching Influence and Future Outlook
Geep Wade, the new offensive line coach, brings experience from Georgia Tech, where he previously coached. Evans expressed enthusiasm about learning from Wade's coaching style, particularly in film study and technique. He noted, “We can learn a lot from them and just get better in the film study,” indicating a commitment to improving their performance.
As the Huskers embark on their spring practices, Evans is optimistic about the foundation being laid for the upcoming season. He stated, “We do have a set foundation of what we’re going to work on and what we need to improve to get better this season.”
Criticism & Opposition: Addressing Past Performance
Despite the optimism surrounding the new recruits and coaching staff, the offensive line's past performance has drawn criticism. The Huskers ranked 112th in the nation for sacks allowed, with quarterback Dylan Raiola being sacked 27 times. While Evans acknowledged the challenges faced by the offensive line, he emphasized the need for improvement and accountability moving forward.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I think we’re definitely ahead of the game,” — Justin Evans, Center
- “I think everybody has to prove themselves at some point,” — Justin Evans, Center
- “He’s grown as a player, as a person, immensely, I can say,” — Justin Evans on Elijah Pritchett
- “We can learn a lot from them and just get better in the film study.” — Justin Evans on Geep Wade
As Nebraska's offensive line prepares for the 2026 season, the integration of new talent and leadership will be crucial in addressing past shortcomings and striving for improved performance on the field.
