A Shift in the 2027 Class
Nebraska's 2027 recruiting efforts were jolted when Kaden Howard, a three‑star receiver from Miami, announced his decommitment from the Huskers and flipped his pledge to Georgia Tech, a move first reported on June 8. The loss includes Jabari Watkins, who had been listed among the class's early targets.
Howard had verbally committed to Nebraska back in March 20 and had been counted as the second receiver pledge, but his switch leaves a vacancy that the coaching staff is working to fill. The current haul still features Antayvious Ellis, Larry Miles, Nalin Scott and Maurice Purify II, each of whom has signed on to the 2027 roster.
Among the remaining targets, four‑star prospect Matthew Gregory from Pottstown, Pennsylvania, has set his official decision date for June 8, keeping Nebraska on his list alongside a handful of other top receivers such as Kwazi Gilmer, Jacory Barney and Nyziah Hunter, who are expected to see increased snaps next season.
The Huskers' 2027 class currently boasts six four‑star commitments and nine three‑star pledges, positioning the group at No. 18 in the national 247Sports rankings. Trae Taylor, Janiran Bonner and Quinn Clark are among the additional pledges that have added depth to the squad.
Coach Scott Frost's staff has also added transfer talent Kwazi Gilmer from UCLA while counting on the continued development of Jacory Barney and Nyziah Hunter, both of whom are expected to see increased snaps next season. The roster also includes Cortez Mills, Errol Demontagnac, Bryce Williams, Eli Harris, Joey Hunter, Ma'atoe Moe and the emerging interior lineman Barrett Kitrell, who remains a high‑priority target.
Nebraska's standing inside the Big Ten places them tenth, trailing traditional powers such as Penn State, UCLA, USC, Ohio State, Wisconsin, Oregon, Minnesota, Michigan and Washington. In‑state prospects Justin Parish and Owen Price, both interior offensive linemen, have already received offers, with Parish recognized as the state's top‑rated 2028 player. Other local talents such as Tay Ellis, Tory Pittman II and Matt Erickson have also been extended invitations, underscoring the program's ongoing emphasis on home‑grown talent.