Nebraska Cornhuskers Coach Matt Rhule in Serious Negotiations with BYU for Record-Breaking Contract Deal
In a shocking development shaking the college football world, Nebraska Cornhuskers head coach Matt Rhule is reportedly in advanced negotiations with Brigham Young University (BYU) for what insiders are calling a “record-breaking, paradigm-shifting” contract deal. Sources close to the situation have confirmed that talks have intensified over the past two weeks, with BYU aggressively pursuing Rhule to lead its football program into a new era of national relevance.
Matt Rhule, known for his program-building prowess at Temple, Baylor, and now Nebraska, has drawn significant attention for turning struggling teams into disciplined, competitive units. Since taking the reins at Nebraska, Rhule has focused on culture, fundamentals, and recruiting – three pillars that mirror BYU’s long-standing values. The Cougars, who joined the Big 12 Conference in 2023, have ambitions far beyond bowl eligibility. They want championships – and they believe Rhule is the coach to get them there.
The deal being discussed is believed to include an annual salary in the range of $11-12 million, potentially making Rhule the highest-paid coach in college football. In addition, the contract reportedly includes unprecedented performance incentives, including bonuses tied to playoff appearances, graduation rates, and even NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) success among players. A private source familiar with the negotiations called the offer “unlike anything the NCAA has seen – a comprehensive blend of competitive compensation and visionary leadership incentives.”
BYU’s athletic department has remained tight-lipped, issuing a standard “no comment on ongoing personnel discussions.” Nebraska officials, however, have expressed surprise and concern. Rhule’s current contract with Nebraska runs through 2030, and includes a substantial buyout clause. But with BYU rumored to be willing to absorb the full buyout and more, the Cornhuskers could soon be left scrambling for a replacement.
Analysts say BYU’s aggressive pursuit of Rhule is symbolic of the shifting landscape in college athletics. “We’re witnessing a new arms race,” said ESPN analyst Cole Blackmon. “Programs like BYU, traditionally more conservative with their spending, are now realizing they must invest heavily in elite coaching talent to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving Big 12 and playoff-expanding NCAA.”
Rhule himself has not made a public statement, but was notably absent from a scheduled speaking engagement in Omaha earlier this week. Nebraska boosters are reportedly organizing a last-ditch effort to retain him, including fundraising to restructure his current contract. Whether it will be enough remains uncertain.
If Rhule does sign with BYU, it will mark one of the most seismic coaching moves in recent memory — not just for the sheer financial magnitude, but for the cultural and competitive implications across the college football landscape.
For now, fans in Lincoln and Provo wait anxiously. One program hopes to keep its visionary leader. The other is prepared to break the bank to get him.
1 Comment
Hope Rhule leaves the Huskers. Doesn’t fit the Husker culture. Bye asap!