Nebraska RB Room Exudes Confidence Ahead of 2026 Season

Huskers RB coach E.J. Barthel sees potential in his backfield despite losing star Emmett Johnson to the NFL Draft

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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Nebraska running backs coach E.J. Barthel is excited about the potential of his running back room heading into the 2026 season, despite the loss of star back Emmett Johnson to the NFL Draft. Barthel highlighted the progress of players like Kwinten Ives, Mekhi Nelson, and Isaiah Mozee, as well as the emergence of freshman Jamal Rule, who Barthel says has a 'chip on his shoulder' after being overlooked in recruiting. The coach believes this group can exceed expectations, with Nelson in particular standing out for his decisive, hard-nosed running style.

Why it matters

Nebraska's running game was a strength in 2025 with Emmett Johnson leading the way, so his early departure for the NFL leaves a big hole to fill. How the Huskers' young running backs step up to replace that production will be crucial to the team's success in 2026.

The details

Barthel highlighted the progress of several players in the running back room. Kwinten Ives, who had been 'largely underwhelming' at Nebraska, stepped up late last season and had his 'best spring' according to the coach. Mekhi Nelson and Isaiah Mozee are the top two backs, with Nelson likely the lead dog after a strong showing in the bowl game. Freshman Jamal Rule has also impressed the staff with his physical running style, despite the challenges of transitioning to the college game.

  • In the Las Vegas Bowl last season, Kwinten Ives picked up several key first downs in short-yardage situations.
  • Nebraska is currently halfway through spring practices.

The players

E.J. Barthel

Nebraska's running backs coach who is excited about the potential of his backfield group.

Kwinten Ives

A 6-foot-3, 215-pound running back who has been 'largely underwhelming' at Nebraska but stepped up late last season and is having his 'best spring' according to Barthel.

Mekhi Nelson

A 6-foot, 197-pound sophomore who is likely the lead back after a strong showing in the bowl game, with Barthel praising his decisive, hard-nosed running style.

Isaiah Mozee

A 6-foot, 215-pound sophomore who is challenging Nelson for the starting job, with Barthel saying he needs to improve his ability to run between the tackles.

Jamal Rule

A 6-foot, 205-pound freshman who has already impressed the staff in spring practices, with Barthel saying he has a 'chip on his shoulder' after being overlooked in recruiting.

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What they’re saying

“Not only did he do it in practice, he stepped up and did it in the (bowl) game. His question never has been about ability. Last year, it was soft-tissue injuries. So, he's going to be challenged this spring to continue to focus on his body and keep himself healthy.”

— E.J. Barthel, Nebraska Running Backs Coach (on3.com)

“The key is: Can he maximize his speed and keep his power? When you get under 190, that's when you get a little concerned.”

— E.J. Barthel, Nebraska Running Backs Coach (on3.com)

“Now, everyone on the staff and everyone on our team is seeing why we believed in him. I think that's part of his attitude.”

— E.J. Barthel, Nebraska Running Backs Coach (on3.com)

What’s next

Nebraska will continue spring practices, with the running back competition expected to be a key focus as the Huskers look to replace the production of Emmett Johnson.

The takeaway

Despite the loss of a star running back, Nebraska's backfield appears to have promising young talent that could exceed expectations if they continue to develop. The competition and confidence in the room suggests the Huskers' ground game may remain a strength in 2026.