Nebraska Football appears to be in the mix for another offensive lineman as 2024 interior offensive lineman Preston Tauma has narrowed down his top choices. Nebraska and Oregon are in his final two.
Tauma is the 16th overall interior offensive lineman in the 2024 class, and the top overall player in his class from the state of Hawaii per the 247Sports Composite Rankings. He is a four-star recruit. The lineman holds a numerical rating of just over 91.
Right now, he is predicted to go to Oregon, but has several schools interested in him. Arizona, Auburn, Alabama, Nebraska, and Oregon appear to be his top five. He took a visit to Lincoln on June 19.
Tauma could potentially commit on July 16 according to a report from Blair Angulo of 247Sports.
His primary recruiter is offensive line coach Donovan Raiola. Raiola has been successful in recruiting lineman this cycle. Gibson Pyle and Landen Davidson are two of his most recent commitments.
What could he bring to Nebraska Football?
Taumua played multiple positions for Aiea High School in Hawaii. He is aggressive and physical on the line, especially at the tackle position. He does a good job of extending his hands and driving his man back. Leverage never seems to be an issue with him, and he is always aggressive when completing his blocks. Pass protection is another strength of his, and he is able to stay square when guarding his defender.
Taumua would be the perfect type of lineman for this coaching staff to develop. He has the aggressive traits that they are looking for. Stocking up on offensive lineman is never a bad thing, and Tauma would be another solid get for the program.
However, it’s never easy competing with Oregon on the recruiting trail. Nebraska football certainly does have their work cut out for them. It’s never easy to compete with Oregon when it comes to West Coast recruiting. The Ducks have done a good job over the years of controlling the West Coast. USC and Lincoln Riley have done so as well. However, at least the Huskers have made the top two.
It will be fun to see how much this class grows, and how many more names are added. Here’s to hoping Taumua is one of them.