🌽 Nebraska Football’s Top 5 Recruiting Wins Under Matt Rhule — Where They Are Now …

🌽 Nebraska Football’s Top 5 Recruiting Wins Under Matt Rhule — Where They Are Now

 

 

Since taking the reins in 2022, Matt Rhule has set out to rebuild Nebraska football with a clear focus on recruiting high-upside talent and fostering a culture of development. Though the Huskers have yet to return to their former national prominence, Rhule’s top recruiting wins offer a glimpse into the program’s potential future. Here’s a look at five of the most impactful commitments Rhule has landed—and where they are now.

1. Dylan Raiola — QB, Class of 2024

Perhaps the most headline-grabbing recruit under Rhule, five-star quarterback Dylan Raiola flipped to Nebraska after a dramatic recruiting battle involving Georgia and USC. Raiola, the nephew of Nebraska O-line coach Donovan Raiola, enrolled early in 2024 and immediately became the face of Rhule’s rebuild.

Where he is now: Raiola is expected to start as a true freshman this fall. Early reports from fall camp suggest he’s quickly grasping the offense and is already showing leadership well beyond his years.

2. Carter Nelson — TE/ATH, Class of 2024

Hailing from Ainsworth, Nebraska, four-star tight end Carter Nelson was a massive in-state get. At 6’5″ and an elite multi-sport athlete, Nelson turned down offers from Notre Dame, Alabama, and Georgia to stay home.

Where he is now: Nelson is working with the first-team offense in camp and is being used in a hybrid TE/WR role. Coaches rave about his versatility, and he’s projected to contribute right away in red zone and third-down situations.

3. Princewill Umanmielen — EDGE, Class of 2023

A key pickup from Texas, Umanmielen brought much-needed athleticism and burst to Nebraska’s pass rush. He chose the Huskers over Florida, Texas, and Oklahoma.

Where he is now: After a developmental freshman season, Umanmielen is penciled in as a starting edge rusher in 2025. Strength and conditioning work under Rhule’s staff has transformed him physically, and he’s emerged as a vocal leader on defense.

4. Malachi Coleman — WR, Class of 2023

A local product from Lincoln East High School, Coleman’s commitment symbolized the importance of locking down in-state talent. A four-star receiver with elite track speed, he was a must-keep for Rhule’s staff.

Where he is now: Coleman saw the field in 2023 as a freshman and is expected to be a breakout candidate in 2025. His deep-threat ability is key to stretching the field for Raiola’s arm.

5. Cam Lenhardt — DL, Class of 2023

A high-motor lineman from IMG Academy, Lenhardt impressed coaches early with his maturity and technique. Originally from New York, he embraced Rhule’s vision and enrolled early.

Where he is now: Lenhardt played rotational snaps as a freshman but is now a projected starter at defensive tackle. He’s bulked up and added strength, positioning him as a central figure in Nebraska’s evolving front seven.

Final Thoughts:

Matt Rhule’s blueprint is still under construction, but the early returns from his top recruits are promising. These players aren’t just filling roster spots—they’re reshaping the identity of Nebraska football. If development stays on track, Husker fans may finally see their team back in the national spotlight sooner rather than later.