Before the transfer portal, projecting a college football team's roster years in advance was much easier. Now, there's obviously more to consider.
Based on what head coach David Braun has been saying, it sounds like Northwestern is set up well to retain most of its existing talent in 2026. But a 100% success rate in that department feels borderline impossible, and certain players -- those who drastically outperformed expectations this season -- feel more likely to try to upgrade programs.
Of the players for whom it would make sense to explore other options, here are the three most important pieces for the 'Cats to keep in Evanston.
WR Griffin Wilde
Wilde is the top name, and it isn't particularly close. If Northwestern wants to take a step forward next season, it's going to need to take that step on the offensive side of the ball. No matter who is playing quarterback -- Ryan Boe or a transfer -- he's going to need a reliable wideout. Wilde is that guy.
Hayden Eligon will hopefully be back as well, but his production in 2025 was spotty at times despite all the tools he possesses. Retaining Wilde, the GameAbove Sports Bowl MVP, should be the singular top priority for Braun and his staff this offseason.
Wilde does everything on the football field for his quarterback. He has good hands. He's a plus route runner. He can make contested catches down the field. He has yards after catch ability. He surely knows what he's worth, and there will be other teams hoping to pounce on his services.
OG Ezomo Oratokhai
Northwestern wants to develop linemen internally and use the portal to add players at positions it struggles to recruit. In order for that formula to work, it needs to be able to retain offensive linemen who shine at a young age.
Oratokhai was phenomenal this season as a redshirt freshman, allowing just one sack and 10 pressures throughout the season. Northwestern is losing Martes Lewis and Caleb Tiernan on the outside of its line. If it had to replace its young, star interior lineman as well, that would be a serious problem.
The 'Cats' style of play relies on having a solid offensive front. Oratokhai figures to be a huge part of that equation in 2026.
WR Hayden Eligon II
I know -- picking two receivers seems crazy. But I can't get enough of this sophomore athletic monster.
I think Eligon has everything it takes to be a top-tier wide receiver in the Big Ten right now. In fact, I'm willing to plant my flag in the sand: Hayden Eligon will be a productive receiver in the NFL.
He's big. He's fast. He's physical. His profile screams professional athlete, and I think Northwestern would be wise to prioritize keeping him in purple as long as he's playing college football. I expect him to take a massive step next season, and if they can get him to stick around for a post-Wilde season, he might put up some pretty special numbers in purple. It all starts with keeping him in tow for 2026.
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