Nebraska Clarifies Rhule’s Contract Amid PSU Buzz

LINCOLN, Neb. – The University of Nebraska has publicly reaffirmed head coach Matt Rhule’s eight-year, $72 million contract, moving to quell growing speculation that Rhule might consider a departure for a potential opening at Penn State. The clarification, issued on February 28, 2024, underscored existing clauses designed to make it financially prohibitive for the coach to leave for specific rival programs.

The announcement from the Nebraska athletic department aimed to directly address and shut down swirling rumors linking Rhule to the Nittany Lions. These rumors stemmed from the contractual situation of Penn State’s current head coach, James Franklin, whose agreement could potentially allow him to leave Happy Valley with a minimal buyout following the upcoming 2024 season. Rhule’s name had frequently surfaced in discussions about potential candidates should the Penn State position become available.

This was not a brand-new contract but rather a public reinforcement of the substantial deal Rhule initially signed with Nebraska in December 2022. That original agreement committed Rhule to the Cornhuskers through the 2030 season, reflecting the university’s significant long-term investment and vision for its football program under his leadership.

Central to the university’s statement were the existing contractual terms detailing Rhule’s buyout. The agreement stipulates that if Rhule were to leave Nebraska for a specific list of high-profile programs—including USC, Michigan, Michigan State, Ohio State, Oregon, Texas, Texas A&M, Washington, Wisconsin, and Penn State—before December 31, 2024, his buyout would be a substantial $12 million. For any other institution, the buyout amount would be $6 million, with these figures decreasing after that 2024 deadline. This clause clearly signals Nebraska’s intent to protect its investment in Rhule and deter poaching from rival institutions.

Rhule, known for his program-building prowess at Temple and Baylor before a stint with the NFL’s Carolina Panthers, completed his first season in Lincoln with a 5-7 record in 2023. Despite missing a bowl game, his tenure has been marked by a focus on culture change, player development, and a strong recruiting push, generating optimism among the fanbase for future seasons. His track record of turning struggling programs into contenders is a key reason for the university’s strong commitment to his long-term plan.

The public reaffirmation sends a clear message both internally and externally: Nebraska is fully committed to Matt Rhule as its head coach and intends to retain him for the long haul. It serves to stabilize the coaching situation, allowing Rhule and his staff to continue their work without the distraction of external speculation. With the university’s explicit clarification, the focus is now firmly on the upcoming 2024 season, as Rhule looks to build upon his initial year and guide the Cornhuskers towards renewed success in the Big Ten.