Nebraska football continues to strengthen its quarterback lineage with the commitment of 2026 prospect Dayton Raiola, the younger brother of current Cornhuskers starter Dylan Raiola. The Raiola family’s deep ties to Nebraska football are further solidified with this addition, sparking discussions about Dayton’s potential to not only match but possibly surpass his brother’s accomplishments.
Dayton, a 6-foot-1, 205-pound quarterback from Buford High School in Georgia, announced his commitment to Nebraska in September 2024. He expressed his enthusiasm about continuing the family legacy in Lincoln, stating, “I think it’s a great opportunity to continue my family’s legacy at Nebraska.”
His commitment marks the first for Nebraska’s 2026 recruiting class, showcasing the program’s focus on securing top talent early.
Dylan Raiola, Dayton’s older brother, made headlines as a true freshman starter for Nebraska in 2024. Standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 220 pounds, Dylan completed over 67% of his passes, throwing for 2,819 yards and 13 touchdowns during his inaugural season. His playing style drew national attention for its resemblance to NFL star Patrick Mahomes, with both sharing similar physical traits and on-field maneuvers.
The Raiola brothers are the sons of Dominic Raiola, a former Nebraska All-American and NFL veteran, further embedding the family’s legacy within the program.
While it’s premature to definitively compare the two brothers, early observations suggest that Dayton possesses a unique skill set that could potentially elevate him beyond his brother’s achievements. His commitment not only reinforces Nebraska’s quarterback depth but also underscores the program’s dedication to fostering familial legacies and securing top-tier talent for future seasons.
