David Braun provided an update on Northwestern’s offensive line, highlighting the experience of Jackson Carsello, Grant Seagren and Ezomo Oratokhai while noting that competition remains before the Wildcats finalize their starting five.
Northwestern's offensive line is still being evaluated, but head coach David Braun expects the group to be settled before the Wildcats open the 2026 season.
While Northwestern has several experienced players competing for roles up front, Braun said the continued competition is a positive for the Wildcats as they work toward establishing their starting five.
“I would say there are still elements of evaluation and competition, but that’s a good thing,” Braun said.
One of the biggest pieces of the group will be veteran center Jackson Carsello, who returns for another season and was voted one of Northwestern's team captains.
Carsello brings valuable experience to an offensive line that will feature several players with significant college football experience. Braun specifically mentioned Carsello, Ezomo Oratokhai and Grant Seagren as players who have already played a lot of Big Ten football.
That experience could be important as Northwestern prepares for another demanding Big Ten schedule. The Wildcats are also evaluating several other players who could earn significant roles.
Braun mentioned Deuce McGuire as a player the coaching staff is continuing to evaluate while looking for the best way to utilize him. He also praised the development of Dennis Rahouski, who has continued to make progress throughout camp.
Nov 2, 2024; West Lafayette, Indiana, USA;NorthwesternWildcats head coach David Braun reacts to a touchdown in front ofNorthwesternWildcatsoffensivelinemanDeuce McGuire (73) during the second quarter at Ross-Ade Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Marc Lebryk-Imagn Images “We’re really excited about Dennis Rahouski’s development,” Braun said.
For now, Northwestern appears to have several options capable of competing for spots along the offensive line. The coaching staff will continue experimenting with different combinations before making its final decision.
Braun said the plan is to have the offensive line “solidified going into next week,” giving the Wildcats a clear starting group heading into the season opener against South Dakota State.
Carsello Will Lead the Way
Carsello's presence could be especially important for the group.
As a returning veteran and team captain, he will be responsible for helping communicate protections and make sure the offensive line is on the same page. His experience could also help a new starting quarterback settle into the offense.
That will be particularly important with Aidan Chiles taking over as Northwestern's starting quarterback and Chip Kelly implementing a new offensive system.
A reliable offensive line can give Chiles the time and confidence needed to make plays while also creating opportunities for Caleb Komolafe and Northwestern's running game.
The Wildcats also have a strong history of developing offensive linemen, with former Northwestern stars Peter Skoronski and Rashawn Slater eventually becoming first-round NFL Draft picks and establishing themselves as elite players at the professional level.
While it is far too early to compare this year's group to those players, Northwestern will need its current offensive line to develop its own identity.
The Wildcats have plenty of experience to work with, but the final combination still needs to come together.
With the season opener approaching, all eyes will be on which five players earn the opportunity to protect Chiles and lead Northwestern's new-look offense.
