Nebraska Football Offensive Line Sees Major Overhaul Ahead of 2026 Season

Huskers add several experienced transfers to bolster offensive line after struggles in 2025

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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Nebraska's offensive line unit has undergone a major transformation ahead of the 2026 season, with the Huskers adding several experienced transfers to bolster the group. The team returns starting left tackle Elijah Pritchett and center Justin Evans, but has seen significant turnover with the departures of Rocco Spindler, Henry Lutovsky, and others. New offensive line coach Geep Wade and running game coordinator Lonnie Teasley have brought in Brendan Black, Tree Babalade, and Paul Mubenga from the transfer portal to compete for starting roles, while also adding three high school recruits to the mix.

Why it matters

Nebraska's offensive line struggled at times in 2025, surrendering 33 sacks. The overhaul of the unit, with the addition of several veteran transfers and high school recruits, is a crucial step in improving the Huskers' offensive performance and protecting the quarterback ahead of a challenging 2026 schedule that features three 2025 College Football Playoff teams.

The details

Returning starters Elijah Pritchett at left tackle and Justin Evans at center provide a solid foundation for the offensive line. The Huskers have added experienced transfers Brendan Black (Iowa State) at right guard, Tree Babalade (South Carolina) at right tackle, and Paul Mubenga (LSU) at left guard to compete for starting roles. Nebraska also signed three high school recruits, including tackle prospect Claude Mpouma, who could see early playing time. The goal is for the new-look offensive line to provide better protection and open up running lanes for the Huskers' offense in 2026.

  • Nebraska will kick off spring practice in just five days.
  • The Huskers open the 2026 season in the fall.

The players

Elijah Pritchett

A returning starting left tackle who started nine games for Nebraska in 2025 and was the team's highest-graded player in the bowl game.

Justin Evans

The most experienced member of the offensive line, having started 31 career games at center and guard for the Huskers.

Brendan Black

A transfer from Iowa State who has 36 games of experience and 30 career starts at right guard.

Tree Babalade

A transfer from South Carolina who has 22 career games played with 15 starts, and is expected to compete for the starting right tackle job.

Paul Mubenga

A transfer from LSU who has 20 games of experience and 11 starts, and is likely to replace departed left guard Henry Lutovsky.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The Huskers' offensive line will be a major focus during spring practice, as the new-look unit looks to develop chemistry and improve upon the struggles of 2025.

The takeaway

Nebraska's offensive line has undergone a significant overhaul, with the addition of several experienced transfers and high school recruits. The goal is for this new-look unit to provide better protection for the quarterback and open up running lanes, which will be crucial for the Huskers' success in 2026 against a challenging schedule.