In speaking about what Nebraska has coming back at some of the most important positions for the Huskers, it's clear that offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen has a lot of trust in guys like Nyziah Hunter and Jacorey Barney. Even more important than Holgorsen's trust in them is that they both trust in the team's quarterbacks, especially TJ Lateef.
"You know, we had a brief conversation with Jacorey and Nyziah. They were excited about TJ. TJ's got a really bright future ... You know, those guys were looking at TJ and were like, 'man, quarterback of the future, no problem.'"
It's hardly shocking that the Nebraska wide receivers would have faith in the quarterback they played with. That's only natural; it's more than they feel as though he can really grow and mature, that's rather noteworthy.
Dana Holgorsen shares that TJ Lateef played a big role in the return of Jacory Barney and Nyziah Hunter.
— Hail Varsity (@HailVarsity) February 19, 2026
“Those guys were looking at [TJ Lateef] and was like, quarterback of the future.” pic.twitter.com/JAzGZYa56g
Dana Holgorsen highlights Nebraska football’s trust in young quarterback TJ Lateef
Holgorsen also made it clear that going after a portal quarterback, which ended up being Anthony Colandrea, wasn't some kind of strike against Lateef. Instead, the Husker OC believes there is a real need to have plenty of depth at the position.
That feeds into the idea that Nebraska will have a real quarterback competition both in the spring and once fall practice rolls around. Daniel Kaelin also came over in the Transfer Portal, making his triumphant return after departing last winter for Virginia. He's expected to get a chance to compete for the starting job, too, even if Colandrea and Lateef are considered the front-runners.
Just how this season turns out for the Nebraska football team is anyone's guess. However, it's clear that there's a ton of buyin from the guys who stuck around and are excited to return for the upcoming season.