Now that it appears Nebraska is done adding Transfer Portal players, the post-mortem shows 17 additions with one notable absence at running back.
Why did the Huskers not sign a running back despite it being a prominent position of need after the departure of Emmett Johnson? Most people think it's because there just wasn't enough money to go around. However, head coach Matt Rhule claims it's more about fit and his confidence in who they have, more than a lack of cash.
Speaking last week about Nebraska's Transfer Portal haul, Rhule made it clear that NU didn't go out and sign just any running back. In the end, they didn't see one they felt was an obvious Husker signee. Or, the players they did go after, they thought were fits, viewed other schools as better options for the player.
Why Nebraska believes fit matters more than NIL spending in the Transfer Portal
He added that while he understands the needs from the portal are immediate, he still wants to build the Huskers long-term through the high school ranks. The 2026 class, not withstanding.
"Like Paul Mubenga just signed with us from LSU," Rhule said during an appearance on the Huskers Sports Network. "He visited South Carolina, he visited Arkansas, he came to us, and then he went to Bama – and then he chose us ... So if the resources match, then the guys can pick that school that's best for them."
"Not everyone picked us. Some people said, 'I feel like I'm at a better fit with X ... with Y.' But when you talk about building a team, I still want to recruit high school players, I want them to come in, I want them to develop and grow."
This was apparently demonstrated again this week when the Huskers lost a defensive line commit in Andy Burburija to Clemson. While some fans were worried it showed NU was outbid by the Tigers.
However, reports surfaced that Nebraska backed away from the JUCO All-American when questions about his ability to qualify academically surfaced. It shows the fit wasn't there for one or both sides. It will be a while before a final judgment is passed on Rhule's approach and whether it worked.