Mike Ekeler Leaves Tennessee for Nebraska: A Key Move in College Football Coaching
The college football coaching carousel has taken another turn, and this time, it’s Mike Ekeler who is on the move. The Tennessee Volunteers’ special teams coordinator is leaving the program to return to a familiar place—Nebraska. Ekeler, known for his dynamic coaching style and ability to develop elite special teams units, is making a homecoming of sorts, having previously been on the Cornhuskers’ staff. His return is expected to have significant implications for both Nebraska and Tennessee as they prepare for their respective seasons.
Ekeler’s Coaching Journey
Mike Ekeler’s coaching career spans over two decades and is marked by a wealth of experience at various levels of college football. He has worked under some of the most respected head coaches in the game and has developed a reputation for being one of the top special teams minds in the country.
Ekeler’s coaching career began at Oklahoma, where he served as a graduate assistant from 2003 to 2004 under legendary head coach Bob Stoops. His time with the Sooners allowed him to gain valuable insight into elite-level coaching and program building. Following his stint at Oklahoma, he moved to LSU, where he was a graduate assistant from 2005 to 2007. During that period, LSU won the 2007 BCS National Championship, further cementing Ekeler’s experience with championship-level football.
In 2008, Ekeler joined Nebraska’s coaching staff under head coach Bo Pelini as the linebackers coach. His tenure in Lincoln lasted three seasons, during which Nebraska’s defense consistently ranked among the best in the nation. His return to the Cornhuskers’ staff marks a significant moment in his career, as he brings a wealth of experience accumulated from various programs across the country.
Success at Tennessee
Ekeler joined Tennessee’s coaching staff in 2021 as the special teams coordinator and outside linebackers coach under head coach Josh Heupel. His impact on the Volunteers’ special teams was immediate, as he helped turn Tennessee into one of the top units in the Southeastern Conference (SEC). Under his guidance, the Volunteers saw vast improvements in kick and punt return coverage, blocking, and field goal execution.
One of the highlights of Ekeler’s tenure in Knoxville was the emergence of Velus Jones Jr. as one of the top return specialists in the nation. Jones, who later became an NFL draft pick, credited much of his special teams success to Ekeler’s coaching and attention to detail. Tennessee’s special teams were instrumental in the team’s rise under Heupel, playing a critical role in wins over top-ranked opponents.
Ekeler’s coaching style is defined by high energy, passion, and an aggressive approach to special teams play. He has a knack for getting the most out of his players and emphasizes discipline, fundamentals, and an attacking mindset. His departure leaves a void for Tennessee, which will now have to find a replacement capable of maintaining the program’s special teams excellence.
Why Nebraska?
For Ekeler, the decision to return to Nebraska is more than just a career move—it’s a homecoming. A Nebraska native, he has long held deep ties to the program and its fanbase. His familiarity with the culture and expectations in Lincoln makes him a natural fit for the role.
The Cornhuskers are undergoing a period of transition under head coach Matt Rhule, who took over in 2023. Rhule has emphasized the importance of special teams, recognizing that elite special teams play can be a game-changer in the Big Ten. Nebraska has struggled in that department in recent years, often losing games due to poor special teams execution. Ekeler’s hiring is a direct response to those struggles, as Nebraska looks to return to national prominence.
One of the biggest challenges facing Ekeler will be instilling consistency and discipline in Nebraska’s special teams unit. The Cornhuskers have had issues with missed field goals, poor kick coverage, and costly penalties in recent seasons. Ekeler’s track record suggests he is the right coach to address these issues and turn special teams into a strength for Nebraska.
Impact on Tennessee
Ekeler’s departure leaves a significant void for the Volunteers, especially considering the role special teams have played in Tennessee’s success under Josh Heupel. Finding a replacement who can maintain the high standard set by Ekeler will be a priority for the Tennessee coaching staff.
One potential candidate could be an internal promotion, as Tennessee has several assistant coaches with special teams experience. However, the Volunteers could also look externally to bring in a seasoned special teams coordinator who can build upon the foundation laid by Ekeler. Regardless of who fills the role, Tennessee will need to ensure that special teams remain a priority as they continue to compete in the highly competitive SEC.
What This Means for Nebraska
For Nebraska, the addition of Ekeler represents a significant upgrade to its coaching staff. Special teams have often been the difference between winning and losing for the Cornhuskers, and bringing in a coach with Ekeler’s expertise should help the program take a step forward.
Ekeler’s coaching style aligns well with what Nebraska needs—discipline, aggression, and accountability. His return will likely be met with enthusiasm from both players and fans, as he is a known commodity with a proven track record. If he can successfully implement his system and get buy-in from the players, Nebraska’s special teams could become a game-changing unit in the Big Ten.
Looking Ahead
As the 2024 season approaches, both Tennessee and Nebraska will be looking to adjust to this coaching change. For Tennessee, the focus will be on maintaining continuity and finding the right replacement. For Nebraska, the emphasis will be on getting Ekeler’s system implemented and improving special teams performance.
In the grander scheme of college football, this move underscores the importance of special teams coaching. Often overlooked compared to offense and defense, special teams can make or break a team’s season. Programs that invest in elite special teams coaching, like Nebraska is doing with Ekeler, often see dividends in close games and high-pressure moments.
Ultimately, Mike Ekeler’s move to Nebraska is a win for the Cornhuskers and a challenge for Tennessee. As one of the most respected special teams coaches in college football, Ekeler’s return to Lincoln could be a game-changer for Nebraska’s future. Meanwhile, Tennessee will need to act quickly to find a worthy successor to continue the program’s success on special teams. One thing is certain—Ekeler’s presence in Nebraska will be felt, and his impact on college football continues to grow.