Nebraska native Mike Ekeler has been named the Huskers’ Special Teams Coordinator, joining Head Coach Matt Rhule’s staff.
Born in David City, Nebraska, Ekeler attended Blair High School before playing linebacker at Kansas State University from 1991 to 1994.
With over 20 years of collegiate coaching experience, Ekeler spent the last four seasons at Tennessee, leading elite special teams and helping the Volunteers reach the 2024 College Football Playoff.
“Mike brings a history of special teams excellence to Nebraska,” said Rhule. “His energy and passion elevate players and will have a huge impact on our program.”
A Blair High School and Kansas State graduate, Ekeler previously coached Nebraska linebackers from 2008-2010, guiding the Huskers to two Big 12 title games. “Coming home to Nebraska means everything,” Ekeler said. “I love Coach Rhule’s vision and can’t wait to make our special teams the best in the nation.”
At Tennessee, his units led the SEC in punt return averages and ranked nationally in key metrics. He coached standout returners like Velus Jones Jr. and Dee Williams, with several players advancing to NFL roles. Ekeler’s defenses also consistently excelled in pinning opponents deep and blocking punts.
Ekeler’s extensive coaching career includes:
1999–2001: Skutt HS (NE) (volunteer)
2002: Manhattan HS (KS) (assistant)
2003–2004: Oklahoma (GA)
2005–2007: LSU (GA)
2008–2010: Nebraska (LB)
2011–2012: Indiana (co-DC/LB)
2013: USC (LB)
2014–2015: Georgia (ILB/DSTC)
2016: North Texas (DC/LB)
2017–2018: North Carolina (LB)
2019: Kansas (STC/ILB)
2020: North Texas (STC)
2021–2024: Tennessee (OLB/STC)
2025-present: Nebraska (STC)
As a player, he starred at Kansas State under Coach Bill Snyder.