'Old school Philly guy' DB coach making strong impression on Nebraska football

John Butler is a bit of a mystery to Husker players and coaches, but he's gaining popularity quickly
Matthew O'Haren-USA TODAY Sports
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When Evan Cooper resigned his position with Nebraska football, the fans were caught off guard, but most thought the coaching staff must have known it was coming. To hear defensive coordinator Tony White tell it on Tuesday, they were also caught mostly flat footed.

They also knew that they had to move quickly. Cooper’s resignation came just weeks before fall camp was set to begin. Just over a month before the season kicked off. So White and head coach Matt Rhule hit the phones and worked quickly.

Despite the time constraints, both Rhule and White think they found a heck of a replacement in John Butler. Now that the former Bufffalo Bills assistant is here in Lincoln, the Nebraska football coaching staff believe they fell into one heck of a talented coworker.

Nebraska football’s new DB coach has already impressed his cowoworkers

“After talking to him the first time I was like, ‘Coach, he might be the dude,” White said during his pre-fall camp press conference. One of the reasons the DC believes that is because Butler has presented himself as an “old-school Philly guy” with an in-your-face demeanor, eager to get to work.

He has indeed gotten to work. Since being hired, the Huskers managed to keep USC transfer Ceyair Wright in the fold. They also got a commitment from Bryson Webber.

The coaches aren’t the only ones impressed by Butler. Count Tommi Hill among those looking forward to working with him.

“Just learning more about what defensive backs he’s coached at the Bills,” the star Nebraska football corner said. “Just learning more about techniques and coverages; what should I expect in this play and what (will) help me be a better player?”

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