For a while, it felt like Dylan Raiola was doing more than just learning from Patrick Mahomes. He was starting to look like him, act like him, and, in some ways, even mirror him off the field. From the faux-hawk haircut to the matching jersey number, the Nebraska quarterback seemed to walk the fine line between tribute and imitation.
But at Nebraska’s spring game this past Saturday, Raiola made something clear without saying a word: he is carving his own path. His hair looked exactly the same as it did last season, despite Mahomes’ recent decision to buzz his head. No last-minute barbershop trip, no sudden style switch. Raiola showed up as himself, not a copy.
Look Of His Own At Last
Raiola, the former No. 1 overall recruit, has long had a close relationship with Patrick Mahomes. The Kansas City Chiefs star even called Raiola his “cousin” and invited him into the locker room after an AFC Championship win.
Learning from one of the NFL’s best is a rare opportunity, and Raiola clearly soaked in the lessons. But admiration sometimes blurred into imitation. The faux-hawk. The number. Even the pregame routine.
Patrick Mahomes speaks to @KCTV5 about his new haircut.
— VIBE Magazine (@VibeMagazine) April 25, 2025
"I can’t believe all you guys let me keep that nappy hair for so long." pic.twitter.com/gf2HijZdl3
Yet, when Mahomes buzzed his head, a move that fans and pundits agreed was long overdue, the spotlight turned back on Raiola. Would he follow suit?
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On Saturday, he answered that question. His hair stayed the same. It was a small but significant move, suggesting that while he still respects Mahomes, he is ready to stand on his own.
Dylan Raiola, man of the people #Huskers pic.twitter.com/95VA6xGtO0
— Mason Kern (@MasonKernMedia) April 26, 2025
This choice might seem minor, but in a world where image often speaks louder than words, it matters. Raiola could have easily chopped his hair and brushed off the copycat claims. Instead, he stayed true to his look, showing that he is not chasing a mirror image of Mahomes, but working to become his own player.
As Nebraska gears up for the fall season, Raiola’s decision sends a quiet but powerful message. If he keeps his current look and focuses on growing into his own style, he will finally silence the chatter about mimicry. However, if he buzzes it all off before August, the comparisons will roar back louder than ever.
For now, Dylan Raiola is moving forward as Dylan Raiola, and Nebraska fans have every reason to be excited.
