OL Houston Kaahaaina-Torres Breaks Down His Commitment to Nebraska
Honolulu (Hawaii) St. Louis offensive lineman Houston Kaahaaina-Torres has committed to Nebraska, making him one of the top linemen from Hawaii to join the Huskers for the second consecutive year.
Kaahaaina-Torres on Choosing Nebraska: “I believe Nebraska will help me become the best center in the country by the time I finish college. I admire what Coach Matt Rhule and his staff are building at Nebraska and want to be part of restoring Nebraska football to its former glory. The state and its loyal fans deserve it.
Coach Donovan Raiola is a tough-love coach with a wealth of knowledge, having worked with many talented players. I want to be the best, and I know Coach Doni will hold me to that standard.
This decision has been challenging for me and my family. I’ve built amazing relationships with many outstanding coaches. Throughout this process, I’ve relied on my family, who have always been my pillar of support. My faith is strong, and I trust in God’s plan for me. Setting aside all the distractions, God has put Nebraska in my heart, and now I have to be obedient and have faith in His plan for my success.”
Final Choices and Visits: Kaahaaina-Torres narrowed his choices to Utah, Arizona State, Michigan State, and Nebraska from nearly 20 offers. He took official visits to all four schools: Arizona State in April, Michigan State on May 31, Utah on June 15, and Nebraska on June 21. Nebraska’s offensive line coach Donovan Raiola, a Hawaii native, played a significant role in his decision. Kaahaaina-Torres and freshman quarterback Dylan Raiola are long-time friends, which also influenced his choice.
Recruitment Rankings: Kaahaaina-Torres is ranked as the No. 43 interior offensive lineman in the country according to composite rankings and is considered the No. 1 player in Hawaii. 247Sports rates him higher, as the No. 27 interior offensive lineman nationally and the No. 2 prospect in Hawaii for 2025. He has been selected to play in the 2025 Under Armour All-America Game in Orlando in January.
Fit with Nebraska: Kaahaaina-Torres has positional versatility, capable of playing tackle, guard, or center. Nebraska plans to use him primarily as a center, a position he has focused on this offseason. Following the successful recruitment of Preston Taumua last year, Nebraska and Raiola have once again landed one of Hawaii’s top offensive linemen.
Expert Opinion: Kaahaaina-Torres is one of the top interior line prospects in the country. Though he plays tackle in high school, he will likely move to guard or center in college. He is strong, with excellent feet, balance, and advanced technique. He already excels in hand usage, pass protection, and run blocking. His strong lower body allows him to withstand bull rushes, and his quickness helps him counter speed rushers. He has the athleticism to reach the second level and dominate linebackers and safeties, and he is strong at the point of attack. With his natural athleticism, physicality, and football IQ, Kaahaaina-Torres is expected to play early at the college level and projects as a multi-year starter for the Huskers.
- Greg Biggins, National Recruiting Analyst
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