Northwestern must attack the transfer portal like free agency. Here are five key positions the Wildcats need to reload to compete in 2026.
It’s no secret the transfer portal has flipped college football on its head. Free agency vibes are real, and David Braun and his staff know they can’t sit back and hope the depth chart fixes itself. As his tenure rolls on, the 2026 version of Northwestern football might be the roster most impacted yet.
Come January 2026, the Wildcats are expected to be in full portal mode, prioritizing proven bodies over long-term projects. Especially up front, where roster turnover has hit the offensive line hard. While the staff has been clear they don’t want to live in the portal forever, this cycle feels like a “win-now” adjustment.
And with portal season officially heating up, it’s time to break down the top positions Northwestern should be shopping for when the college football version of free agency opens.
1. Offensive Line (Veteran Interior Starters & Tackles)
Why: This one’s a no-brainer. Nearly the entire 2025 starting five up front is aging out after the bowl game, and David Braun has already tipped his hand. The Wildcats will be active in the portal for trench help. Think of it like rebuilding the offensive line in March: you don’t mess around. Veteran guards and tackles who’ve seen real snaps are the top priority.
2. Quarterback (Experience + Real Competition)
Why: Northwestern’s QB room is heavy on youth right now, with redshirt freshmen like Ryan Boe still in development mode, and O’Brien coming in as a fresh recruit. That’s fine long-term, but the Wildcats could use a steady hand. Someone who can either start Day 1 or keep the room calm while the young guys cook. The good news? The 2026 portal projects to be loaded at QB. If NU moves fast, there will be options.
3. Wide Receiver (Proven Pass-Catchers)
Why: Every preview of the 2025 roster used the same word for the receiver room: rebuilding. That’s portal code for “we need dudes.” A veteran wideout who’s already beaten Power-conference coverage can fast-track the offense and give the QB an actual safety blanket.
4. Cornerback (Secondary Playmaker)
Why: Big Ten offenses aren’t just ground-and-pound anymore. You need corners who’ve played real snaps against legit passing attacks. Experienced DBs hit the portal every year, and plugging one in can fix coverage issues overnight. This is the kind of move that doesn’t make headlines but wins Saturdays.
5. Edge Rusher (Defensive Line Depth)
Why: One impact edge can flip a defense. Northwestern’s front has pieces, but consistent pressure and depth remain the missing ingredients. Portal edge rushers with FBS reps are always available, and landing one can immediately boost defensive efficiency.
A new, talented quarterback would give Northwestern fans real reason to believe. Especially if the offensive line gets upgraded. But the real question is simple: who’s going to catch the ball?