A Surprise Late-Summer Addition
The Nebraska Cornhuskers are making a major, unexpected splash to bolster their backfield just weeks before the start of fall camp. According to sources close to the program, head coach Matt Rhule and the Huskers are set to add former Penn State running back Tikey Hayes to their 2026 roster.
First reported by Sean Callahan of *HuskerOnline*, the addition of Hayes injects raw talent and Big Ten experience into a Nebraska running back room that was previously facing depth questions. Because he redshirted during his lone season in State College, Hayes arrives in Lincoln with a highly valuable four years of collegiate eligibility remaining.
From Happy Valley to Lincoln via Council Bluffs
Hayes’ journey to Lincoln has been a whirlwind. A highly touted four-star prospect out of Aliquippa, Pennsylvania, the 5-foot-11, 200-pound ball carrier initially committed to his home-state Penn State Nittany Lions. However, stuck behind established star running backs, Hayes saw minimal game action during his true freshman season in 2025.
His only collegiate appearance for the Nittany Lions came during the Pinstripe Bowl victory against Clemson, where he showcased his potential by rushing for 18 yards on three carries. Following the bowl game, Hayes entered the NCAA transfer portal in January.
By May, Hayes had landed at Iowa Western Community College (IWCC) in Council Bluffs. He was projected to serve as the starting tailback for the Reivers this upcoming fall. Instead, the lure of returning to the Power Four and the Big Ten proved too strong. IWCC head coach Scott Strohmeier confirmed that Hayes informed the junior college staff of his decision to jump back to the major conference level with Nebraska.
A High School Legend Ready for the Big Stage
While Hayes has yet to make his mark on the college gridiron, his high school pedigree is nothing short of legendary. Hailing from Aliquippa High School—a historic Pennsylvania powerhouse known for producing NFL icons like Mike Ditka and Darrelle Revis—Hayes put up staggering numbers.
Over his illustrious high school career, Hayes racked up more than 7,000 rushing yards and scored 95 touchdowns. He was an integral piece in guiding Aliquippa to a state championship, consistently flashing the explosive burst, vision, and physical running style that drew scholarship offers from elite programs across the country, including Ohio State, Michigan, and Tennessee.
Restructuring the Huskers’ Backfield
For Coach Matt Rhule, Hayes represents a vital piece of insurance and high-upside depth. Prior to this signing, the Huskers’ running back room was thin on experienced collegiate options.
Under Rhule’s run-heavy offensive philosophy, Hayes will have the opportunity to compete immediately for rotational snaps. He joins a backfield looking to sustain the physical identity Nebraska established last season. With fall camp right around the corner, Hayes is expected to report to Lincoln immediately to begin learning the playbook and adjusting to his new home.