Nebraska football is at a crossroads, and the spotlight is on its special teams. But here's where it gets controversial: Can the Huskers maintain their momentum after losing two key coaches? The answer lies in a bold move by head coach Matt Rhule, who has promoted from within, appointing Brett Maher and Nick Humphrey as co-coordinators. This decision, while surprising to some, underscores Rhule’s commitment to continuity and the preservation of the system that sparked Nebraska’s special teams turnaround in 2025.
After former coordinator Mike Ekeler’s departure for USC, and special teams assistant Josh Martin’s unexpected exit to take a high school head coaching job, questions swirled about the program’s direction. And this is the part most people miss: Rhule’s strategy wasn’t just about filling vacancies—it was about safeguarding the culture and energy that transformed Nebraska’s special teams from a liability into a strength. By elevating Maher, a former Husker standout with a decorated professional career, and Humphrey, a loyal analyst deeply embedded in Ekeler’s system, Rhule is betting on familiarity and passion to sustain success.
Maher’s promotion is particularly intriguing. As a 2012 graduate who earned Big Ten Kicker and Punter of the Year honors in 2011, his credibility is unmatched. His professional experience in the CFL and NFL adds a layer of expertise that could prove invaluable for specialists like Kyle Cunanan and Archie Wilson. But here’s the question: Can a former player turned coach effectively bridge the gap between on-field experience and sideline leadership? Only time will tell.
Humphrey, on the other hand, represents the steady hand of continuity. His decision to stay despite Ekeler’s departure speaks volumes about his belief in Nebraska’s vision. But here’s where it gets even more interesting: With Ekeler’s blueprint still in place, Humphrey’s role as co-coordinator will test whether enthusiasm and system knowledge alone can replicate last season’s success. After all, getting 11 players to treat special teams with the same urgency as offense and defense was no small feat—and it’s a mindset that will be critical against a brutal 2026 schedule, including matchups with three College Football Playoff contenders.
Nebraska’s special teams unit returns nearly all its specialists from 2025, with the notable exception of kickoff returner Kenneth Williams, who entered the transfer portal. Punt returner Jacory Barney Jr., a third-team All-Big Ten selection, is back after amassing 545 combined return yards last season. Wilson and Cunanan, though overlooked for all-conference honors, showed significant growth in 2025, and their continued development will be pivotal.
As spring practices approach, the pressure is on Maher and Humphrey to prove that special teams won’t regress without Ekeler. But here’s the bold prediction: Don’t be surprised if this duo exceeds expectations. Rhule’s insistence on promoting from within wasn’t arbitrary—it was a calculated move to preserve the program’s identity. With split responsibilities, Maher and Humphrey can focus on their strengths, potentially elevating the unit to new heights. For Rhule, the stakes couldn’t be higher. The 2026 season, and perhaps his tenure at Nebraska, may hinge on whether his gut instinct pays off.
Now, we want to hear from you: Do you think Rhule made the right call by promoting Maher and Humphrey? Or is Nebraska taking a risky gamble by relying on internal hires? Let us know in the comments below. The debate is just getting started.
