Nebraska continues its strong early push into the 2027 recruiting cycle with the commitment of defensive lineman Jayden Travers, a powerful 6-foot-3, 260-pound defender out of Maryland. The 3-star prospect held offers from Michigan and Miami, making this a significant win on the trail for the Huskers. His size, strength, and athletic upside add another cornerstone to a class that now sits No. 5 nationally, according to 247Sports.
Recruiting Rebound
The 2026 class was small and, at times, underwhelming—more a casualty of Nebraska’s incredibly young roster and the limited number of scholarships available than a lack of effort or evaluation ability. But 2027 was always circled as the year Nebraska could flex its recruiting power again. With more room to maneuver, that’s precisely what the staff has done.
The 2027 class sits at just seven commits but already ranks second in the Big Ten, trailing only perennial powerhouse Ohio State. Much of that momentum is fueled by elite quarterback Trae Taylor, the jewel of the class and a player many analysts expect to rise to 5-star status before all is said and done.
Adding Travers—someone coveted by major national programs—keeps the arrow pointed firmly upward.
Coaching Turnover Means Little
Nebraska is in the middle of a staff shake-up, having parted ways with its defensive coordinator and both line coaches. Under normal circumstances, that kind of turnover can stall recruiting efforts, but not in Lincoln.
Matt Rhule moved quickly and decisively, bringing in Rob Aurich from San Diego State to take over on the defensive side of the ball. Aurich is a rising young coach whose reputation for player development and energy on the recruiting trail is already resonating.
Travers clearly connected with the new vision. His commitment signals that, despite the churn, Nebraska’s message remains strong and the staff’s long-term stability and developmental track record still carry serious weight.
