Nebraska has rotated running backs in the backfield each of the past two seasons. Now, one of the top contributors from that unit is reportedly looking to enter the transfer portal.

According to multiple reports, Emmett Johnson will be entering the transfer portal. After redshirting in 2022, Johnson has rushed for over 900 yards the past two seasons and split the majority of time in the backfield this season with Dante Dowdell.

Johnson has since confirmed his plans in a note on social media:

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Though Dowdell led Nebraska with 614 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns, Johnson led the Huskers with 785 yards from scrimmage with 262 yards in the receiving game out of the backfield. Johnson was also the most efficient running back for the Huskers with 5.1 yards per carry this season.

During the 2023 season, Johnson appeared in all 12 games and rushed for 411 yards and 2 touchdowns. He was originally a 3-star prospect out of Minnesota in the 2022 recruiting class.

Nebraska used 3 running backs throughout the season with Rahmir Johnson also logging 45 carries and 65 touches in 9 games out of the backfield. Wide receiver Jacory Barney Jr. was also used in the ground game, so it’s possible Emmett Johnson is looking for a chance to play more of a lead role with an offense.

Still, it’s a big loss for the Huskers after Johnson looked like the most versatile contributor at the position for Nebraska.