Nebraska running back Emmitt Johnson has declared for the NFL Draft, and the Cornhuskers will now have to enter a new era without their starting running back or starting quarterback. While there was some hope that Johnson would stick around for another season, he is choosing to take his talents to the next level, and he will have to support of the Nebraska faithful behind him.
Johnson certainly will have the support of his former offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen, who recently in an interview, explained what his reaction to the news was. Holgorsen only got to spend one season with Johnson, but clearly, the two created a great relationship based on his reaction to the news.
"By (Emmett) not playing and going to the NFL, I just gave him a big hug and thanked him for everything he did," Holgorsen said. "Love that kid."
Nebraska offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen on All-American running back Emmett Johnson declaring for the NFL Draft:
— Kevin Sjuts (@kevinsjuts) December 16, 2025
"By (Emmett) not playing and going to the NFL, I just gave him a big hug and thanked him for everything he did. Love that kid."#Huskers @1011_News pic.twitter.com/wrsXhlYvBt
Nebraska will have big shoes to fill with Emmett Johnson going to the NFL
Johnson spent three years with the Cornhuskers, running for a total of 2,460 yards, with his final season being his best, rushing for 1,451 yards and 12 touchdowns. In three years, Johnson had a total of 15 rushing yards and five receiving touchdowns, along with 702 receiving yards.
Johnson will be a great addition to any NFL team that wants him, but he is now in the same draft class as Notre Dame running backs Jeremiyah Love and Jadarian Price. Both backs declared for the NFL Draft within 24 hours of each other.
Even with that, this could be a great running back class for the 2026 draft, and Johnson could go and help a team immediately in need of a strong running back.