Dana Holgorsen addresses Nebraska's plans at QB after Dylan Raiola departure

On Monday, On3 reported that Nebraska quarterback Dylan Raiola plans on entering the NCAA Transfer Portal this offseason. Nebraska offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen addressed Raiola’s departure and the Cornhuskers’ plans for the quarterback position.

“You get the best available,” Holgorsen said. “Is it a pocket guy? Is it a dual-threat guy, more of a runner. You look at the overall body of work. It’s just so different now. We’re actively watching quarterbacks, and have been watching quarterbacks to try to make those decisions.

“We got a whole personnel department that’s been doing it. It’s every position, and those guys have been doing that for months. It’s just about looking and seeing what’s available. … The way I look at it is you get the best player you can. We can mold our coaching around what the best player is and what those skill sets are. Mobility is important. I think TJ [Lateef] brings an element of mobility that is refreshing and helpful, but you got to have that ability to be able to sit in the pocket and make the throws as well.”

Raiola was Nebraska’s starting quarterback for two seasons. He suffered a season-ending injury to his right fibula this season.

He was a five-star prospect in high school, according to the Rivals Industry Rankings. Specifically, Raiola was the No. 3 quarterback in the 2024 recruiting cycle, only trailing DJ Lagway and Julian Sayin. Lagway also plans on entering the transfer portal this offseason.

Raiola completed 72.4% of his pass attempts for 2,000 yards and 18 touchdowns this season, while only throwing six interceptions. In comparison, Raiola completed 67.1% of his passes as a freshman last season, recording 2,819 passing yards, 13 touchdowns and 11 interceptions.

Raiola is currently the No. 2 QB in On3’s 2026 Transfer Portal Player Rankings. His decision to transfer came after Nebraska fired his uncle, Donovan Raiola, who had been the Cornhuskers’ offensive line coach.

Nebraska is set to face off against Utah in the Las Vegas Bowl on New Year’s Eve. Dana Holgorsen refused to discuss Dylan Raiola’s decision to move on from Nebraska.

“I’m not going to speak on any of that. I really loved working with Dylan,” Holgorsen said. “He’s a great kid, and gave a lot to this place for two years. And, just look at what’s going on across the landscape of college football. How many quarterbacks have popped in the portal that were starting at their school?

“It’s just the new norm. So, I can’t speak for him. I enjoyed working with him, and I wish him the best.”