Dylan Raiola’s future is suddenly looking even more complicated — and it’s not just because of football.
The former five-star quarterback is officially expected to enter the transfer portal when it opens on January 2, according to ESPN’s Pete Thamel. The move has already rattled Nebraska fans, but a new personal development may be adding another layer to the saga.
Raiola’s Nebraska Run Took A Sudden Turn
Raiola helped lead the Cornhuskers to their first bowl appearance since 2016, finishing his debut season with a 7–5 record before suffering a season-ending injury on November 1.
Despite the progress, reports indicate Raiola is seeking a program that better positions him to maximize his potential and prepare for the next level of his career.
On paper, that sounds like a clean football decision — but real life rarely is.
A New Relationship Enters The Picture
Over the holidays, Raiola publicly confirmed his relationship with Skarlett Jones, a true freshman on Nebraska’s softball team. The quarterback “hard-launched” the relationship on Christmas via Instagram, quickly drawing attention from fans already on edge about his future.
If Raiola does choose to leave Nebraska, the move would turn his relationship into a long-distance one — something that has sparked speculation among Cornhuskers supporters hoping it could influence his decision.
Could This Change Anything?
College football insiders have noted that the timing of Raiola’s relationship becoming public adds another wrinkle to an already complex situation.
One analyst suggested the relationship could be a factor, but not necessarily a deciding one, especially in the era of NIL deals and easy travel.
In other words, staying in Lincoln for love is possible — but not guaranteed.
Nebraska Already Feeling The Impact
Raiola’s potential departure has already created ripples inside the program. Head coach Matt Rhule has reportedly adjusted his approach heading into next season, planning to be more hands-on and visible on the field as Nebraska looks to stabilize its future.
Whether that shift — combined with personal ties — is enough to keep Raiola in Lincoln remains to be seen.
Decision Still Looms
For now, Raiola’s situation remains unresolved. His relationship with Skarlett Jones has added intrigue, but the quarterback still appears focused on what he believes is best for his long-term development.
As the transfer portal opens, Nebraska fans will be watching closely — not just for official announcements, but for any sign that this unexpected twist might keep their quarterback home a little longer.
“A recent hard launch of their relationship adds yet another wrinkle to the transfer portal saga,” Weir wrote. “Perhaps Raiola is going to change his mind and finish his college football career with the Cornhuskers. Maybe he makes enough money to where a flight back and forth to Lincoln is not enough reason to stay.”
Is his relationship with Skarlett enough to keep him in Lincoln for at least one more year? Or will Raiola still opt to leave the Huskers for greener pastures? It certainly adds another wrinkle to an already intriguing saga.
Raiola’s potential exit already had ramifications within the program. Nebraska coach Matt Rhule has changed his approach from a CEO standpoint and is set to be more present on the field next season.
Dylan Raiola still has close ties with Nebraska
Oct 17, 2025; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Nebraska Cornhuskers quarterback Dylan Raiola (15) looks on during the second half against the Minnesota Golden Gophers at Huntington Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-Imagn Images
Dylan Raiola could continue playing for the Cornhuskers and add to his family legacy. His father, former NFL offensive lineman Dominic Raiola, was an All-American and Nebraska Football Hall of Fame inductee. Dylan flipped his commitment from Georgia to Nebraska in 2023, and perhaps that could happen again soon.
NFL reporter James Palmer reacted to Raiola’s multiple team changes since high school, saying that he would feel bad if he were Raiola’s girlfriend on X.
“I’m absolutely terrified if I’m this guy’s girlfriend right now,” Palmer wrote on social media.
In two seasons with the Huskers, Raiola has gone 456 of 660 for 4,819 yards and 31 touchdowns with 17 interceptions.
