Nebraska Huskers Theme Newsletter
February 04, 2026
SPECIAL TEAMS COACHING SHAKEUP
The biggest story this week centers on Nebraska's special teams coaching crisis. After coordinator Mike Ekeler departed for USC, assistant Josh Martin has now left to become head coach at Liberty Christian High School in Texas. This leaves the Huskers scrambling to fill critical coaching roles with only two remaining assistants—Brett Maher and Nick Humphrey—both relatively inexperienced in coaching despite Maher's NFL playing background.
Sports Illustrated raises an important question about whether Nebraska should promote from within or seek experienced help, with former coordinator Bill Busch emerging as a potential external candidate. The timing is particularly challenging given the dramatic improvement Nebraska's special teams showed in 2025.
ROSTER TRANSFORMATION FOR 2026
Nebraska has completely reshaped its roster heading into 2026, adding 10 high school signees and 16 transfer portal players. The most significant addition is quarterback Anthony Colandrea, who brings experience and mobility to the position. Sports Illustrated provides detailed analysis of how these additions address depth concerns across all position groups, particularly the offensive line with the addition of Tree Babalade from South Carolina.
RECRUITING MOMENTUM BUILDING
The 2027 recruiting class is already taking shape, with five commits gathering for photos during Junior Day visits. Nebraska also extended an offer to top-20 Florida defensive end Kaiden Robinson-Vickers, showing the staff's commitment to building relationships early with elite prospects.
SOURCES
Nebraska special teams assistant Josh Martin leaves for Texas high school coaching job - Husker Extra [PAYWALL]
Nebraska Special Teams Assistant Leaves for Texas High School Head Coach Job - Sports Illustrated Nebraska
Should Nebraska Stay In-House to Run Special Teams—or Reconsider? - Sports Illustrated Nebraska
Breaking Down Nebraska Football's 2026 Roster After Updates, New Positions - Sports Illustrated Nebraska
Nebraska in-state lineman commit Matt Erickson talks Junior Day, next steps for 2027 class - Husker Extra [PAYWALL]
Nebraska Extends Offer to Top-20 2027 Florida Defensive End - Sports Illustrated Nebraska
(Happy Birthday Greg! Enjoy a Pearson’s Nut Roll today.)