Husker fans, it’s time to dust off the Blackshirts and get ready for some fire on special teams! Veteran college assistant and Nebraska native Mike Ekeler is officially back in Lincoln as the Huskers’ special teams coordinator under Head Coach Matt Rhule. And if his past success is any indication, Nebraska’s special teams might just become the most feared unit in the Big Ten.
A Proven Track Record of Special Teams Dominance
Ekeler comes to Nebraska after four highly successful seasons at Tennessee, where he turned the Volunteers’ special teams into an elite unit. Under his leadership, Tennessee led the nation in punt return average over four seasons and ranked first in percentage of punts downed inside the 10-yard line. If there’s a stat that screams “we’re flipping the field!”, that’s the one.
His players weren’t just good in college; they were NFL-ready. Tennessee produced three SEC punt return champions in four years, and two of his returners were NFL starters in 2024. Oh, and did we mention he also coached first-team All-SEC linebackers in his last three seasons at Tennessee? That’s a coach who demands excellence from every phase of the game.
Bringing the Fire Back to Lincoln
Ekeler is no stranger to the Husker way. He previously coached at Nebraska from 2008 to 2010, where he helped the Huskers reach two Big 12 Championship games while leading a dominant defense. His work with Lavonte David, Will Compton, and Eric Martin helped turn them into future NFL talents.
Now, Ekeler is coming home with unfinished business. “I am unbelievably excited to have the opportunity to come back to Nebraska and join Coach Rhule’s staff,” Ekeler said. “I love what Coach Rhule is building… and his vision for making Nebraska’s special teams the best in the nation.”
And it’s personal. Born and raised in Nebraska, Ekeler grew up watching the Huskers at Memorial Stadium, where his uncle, All-American Bob Martin, played. He knows the standard. He’s lived it. And he’s here to restore it.
What This Means for Nebraska
For a team that has struggled with special teams consistency in recent years, this is a massive hire. Nebraska fans still have flashbacks to botched punts, missed kicks, and poor return coverage—all of which can turn the tide of a close game.
With Ekeler leading the charge, expect:
✅ Aggressive, disciplined special teams play
✅ Improved field position thanks to elite punting and returns
✅ A culture of accountability and energy that infects the entire team
Coach Rhule put it best: “Mike’s energy and true passion for special teams carries over to the players on his units, and that will have a positive impact on our program.”
Husker fans, buckle up. Nebraska’s special teams are about to be must-watch football again.
