Mike Ekeler's exit from Nebraska to join Big Ten rival USC is reportedly official following several days of Huskers fans waiting and wondering.
Rumors that the special teams coordinator would join the Trojans sparked up last week. After those rumors started, NU head coach Matt Rhule addressed the potential several times and always seemed like it was a foregone conclusion. Rather than publicly campaigning to keep the assistant he brought to Lincoln just a year ago, Rhule campaigned on how much they wouldn't miss Ekeler.
As of Tuesday night, Nebraska fans are all going to test that theory. Reports surfaced from various sources, including On3, that Mike Ekeler is officially leaving Nebraska and joining Lincoln Riley's staff. Rhule had previously said the Huskers won't be on the hunt for another special teams coordinator but will instead promote from within.
Why Mike Ekeler’s Nebraska exit to USC leaves unanswered questions
While Ekeler's departure is official, why he's leaving is still very unclear. Nebraska offered the coach an extension this season that would have made him one of, if not the highest paid, coaches at his position. However, he never signed the extension and will now make a lateral move inside the conference.
Hired from Tennessee last February 3, Ekeler made $625,000 this past year in Lincoln. He was a 2025 Broyles Award nominee, which goes to the nation's top assistant coach.
His return to Nebraska after first serving as an assistant under Bo Pelini was heralded because he was already considered one of the best special teams coordinators. When he did come back, it was thought that it was for the long term, as he wanted to be closer to family in the state.
The Huskers don't just lose a talented assistant but a popular one, considering the success the Nebraska football team's special teams had in 2025, especially compared to Rhule's first years under Ed Foley. Plenty of fans will be frustrated at the departure and nervous about what comes next.