If there's one position that Nebraska needs more than any other out of the Transfer Portal this winter, it's along the defensive line. And yet, so far, the Huskers have suffered no disappointment when it comes to their targets at the position. The latest loss is especially frustrating as former NU coach Scott Frost won out when Horace Lockett went back to UCF.
Lockett, a defensive lineman for the Knights, drew quite a bit of interest from Power 4 schools in addition to the Huskers. He was set to visit Lincoln, Notre Dame in South Bend, and other teams this week. However, on Monday, he decided he was pulling out of the Transfer Portal and sticking with the Big 12 also-ran.
Lockett was considered a top defensive line target for Nebraska after recording 13 tackles, three tackles for loss, and a sack before suffering a season-ending injury in 2025. He transferred to UCF from Georgia Tech following the 2024 season. The prospect measures in at six-foot-six, 355 pounds.
Nebraska target Horace Lockett stays home with UCF
The Huskers clearly looked at him as someone who could not only occupy space up front, but also create havoc just pushing the middle of the opposing offensive line in the wrong direction.
The loss of Lockett to former Husker coach Scott Frost exacerbates the frustration a little bit more. The fact that NU lost a good defensive lineman to the Transfer Portal of Keona Davis, and then the loss in a showdown for former San Diego State lineman Ryan Henderson.
With as many defensive Aztecs players that entered the portal, it was expected that Nebraska defensive coordinator Rob Aurich would bring in some of his former disciples.
So far, Nebraska has landed quarterback Kenny Minchey and offensive lineman Brendan Black. They're also in very good shape for linebacker Owen Chambliss. Still, the Huskers haven't officially locked down a defensive commit yet. Even if Chambliss does pull the trigger, NU will still be looking for a defensive lineman.