Mike Ekeler, special teams coach for the Tennessee Volunteers, is departing for Nebraska.

In a surprising move that has caught the attention of college football fans and pundits alike, Mike Ekeler, the special teams coach for the Tennessee Volunteers, has announced that he will be departing Knoxville for a new opportunity at the University of Nebraska. Ekeler’s departure marks the end of a tenure that has had a significant impact on Tennessee football, particularly within the special teams unit. Known for his high-energy coaching style, attention to detail, and ability to bring out the best in his players, Ekeler has been a pivotal figure in Tennessee’s special teams success over the past few seasons.

While his departure is a loss for the Volunteers, it’s important to reflect on the work he has done at Tennessee, the legacy he leaves behind, and what his move to Nebraska could mean for both programs. This article will explore Mike Ekeler’s coaching journey, his time at Tennessee, the role special teams play in college football, and the potential impact of his departure on the Vols.

Mike Ekeler’s Coaching Background: A Proven Track Record

Before arriving in Knoxville, Mike Ekeler had already built a solid reputation as one of the most respected special teams coaches in college football. Ekeler’s coaching career spanned multiple schools, and his success was rooted in his ability to develop players and instill discipline in every phase of special teams play. His coaching resume includes stops at some of the nation’s most storied programs, such as LSU, USC, North Texas, and Indiana.

Ekeler’s most notable role came as the defensive coordinator at North Texas, where he honed his skills in coaching all aspects of the game. However, it was his work with special teams that truly distinguished him in the coaching world. His ability to create strong, disciplined units on special teams helped elevate every program he touched, and Tennessee quickly took notice when he joined the staff in 2020.

At Tennessee, Ekeler was tasked with improving a special teams unit that had been inconsistent in previous seasons. Special teams often play a critical role in determining the outcome of games, and Tennessee was in need of someone who could bring structure, innovation, and energy to this area of the team. Ekeler’s hiring was a game-changer, and he quickly made his mark by significantly improving Tennessee’s special teams play, garnering attention not just for his coaching acumen but also for his engaging and energetic personality.

Ekeler’s Impact on Tennessee’s Special Teams

When Mike Ekeler arrived in Knoxville, special teams were an area of concern for the Volunteers. While the team had some talent in the special teams unit, they lacked consistency and, at times, struggled with execution in critical moments. Ekeler’s first priority was to clean up the basics—coverage units, return teams, and kickers—before focusing on more advanced strategies. His focus on discipline and accountability helped transform a unit that had been prone to mistakes into one that performed with confidence and precision.

One of Ekeler’s most notable achievements at Tennessee was his ability to develop standout players who contributed in key moments. Under Ekeler’s guidance, Tennessee’s special teams units became more dynamic and aggressive. Ekeler was instrumental in getting the most out of players like Tee Higgins and Jabari Small, who contributed on both offense and special teams, as well as numerous other players who excelled in coverage or return duties.

Tennessee’s return game, in particular, was one area where Ekeler’s impact was immediately felt. Under his leadership, Tennessee’s return units became one of the most dangerous in the SEC. Keenan Peirce and Velus Jones Jr. were two players who thrived under Ekeler’s tutelage, creating big plays and providing Tennessee with a much-needed edge in the field position battle. Ekeler’s emphasis on technique, timing, and situational awareness helped turn the Vols’ special teams into a potent weapon, capable of flipping momentum in Tennessee’s favor at any moment.

Moreover, Ekeler helped develop kickers and punters who played with more consistency. Paxton Brooks, the Vols’ punter, became one of the best in the conference under Ekeler’s watch. His ability to flip the field with booming punts and pin opponents deep in their own territory was a key part of Tennessee’s special teams strategy. The unit also improved on field goals, where Tennessee’s kickers, under Ekeler’s guidance, executed with more accuracy and confidence.

Tennessee’s coverage units, which had been an area of vulnerability in the past, also saw improvement. Ekeler’s attention to detail and ability to teach his players to read the game quickly helped the Vols limit big returns from opposing teams. His energy and commitment to the fundamentals helped elevate the entire unit’s performance.

Overall, Mike Ekeler’s time at Tennessee was marked by a steady improvement in special teams play. His emphasis on discipline, preparation, and relentless effort created a unit that was not only effective but feared by opponents. Ekeler’s philosophy was simple yet powerful: special teams can win or lose a game, and by emphasizing the importance of every single play, he turned the Vols’ special teams into a major asset.

Ekeler’s Coaching Style: Energy and Intensity

One of the defining characteristics of Mike Ekeler as a coach was his contagious energy. Known for his high-octane coaching style, Ekeler brought a level of intensity to Tennessee’s practices and games that inspired players to give their best effort at all times. His enthusiasm was infectious, and his players often spoke about how his passion for the game made them better, not just as football players, but as individuals.

Ekeler’s coaching philosophy was centered around making every moment count. He worked tirelessly to build relationships with his players, knowing that a strong bond of trust and respect was essential for the success of the special teams unit. His energy wasn’t just for show—it was a key component of his leadership. Ekeler had a knack for motivating players to embrace their roles, even if those roles didn’t always come with the spotlight. He made sure every player understood that special teams were just as important as offense and defense.

On the field, Ekeler’s coaching style was marked by a focus on precision and execution. He drilled players on technique, ensuring that every coverage unit and return team knew exactly what to do in every situation. Ekeler often emphasized the importance of situational awareness, helping his players understand how the game could change on a single special teams play.

While his intensity and energy were key to his coaching, Ekeler was also known for his sense of humor and ability to connect with his players. He created a fun and positive atmosphere around his special teams unit, helping players stay loose and focused at the same time. His approachability and willingness to communicate with players made him a coach who was not only respected but genuinely liked by his team.

Why Ekeler’s Departure to Nebraska Is Significant

Mike Ekeler’s decision to leave Tennessee for Nebraska is significant on several levels. First and foremost, it marks the end of a successful chapter in Tennessee’s special teams history. Ekeler’s departure means that the Volunteers will need to find a new special teams coach who can continue the work he started—building a dynamic, well-executed special teams unit that can provide a game-changing advantage. While Tennessee has a strong foundation to build on, Ekeler’s presence will be difficult to replace.

For Nebraska, the hiring of Ekeler is a bold move aimed at improving their special teams, which have been inconsistent in recent seasons. Nebraska is a program that has struggled to regain its former glory in the competitive Big Ten, and Ekeler’s hiring signals that they are willing to make a commitment to improving all areas of their team, including special teams. By bringing in a coach with Ekeler’s experience and track record, Nebraska hopes to not only improve their special teams but also send a message to recruits that they are serious about competing at the highest level.

The Future of Tennessee Special Teams

As Tennessee prepares to move forward without Mike Ekeler, the big question will be how they fill the void left by his departure. Special teams is often seen as a secondary aspect of the game, but it plays a crucial role in any team’s success, and Tennessee will need someone who can maintain the momentum Ekeler built. Given the success the Vols have had in recent years, finding a coach with a similar philosophy and energy will be critical.

The next special teams coach will need to inherit a talented unit and keep it at a high level. The Vols have several key players who are capable of making an impact on special teams, and with the right leadership, Tennessee could continue to excel in this phase of the game.

 Ekeler’s Legacy at Tennessee

Mike Ekeler’s departure from Tennessee is a bittersweet moment for Vols fans. While his time in Knoxville was relatively short, his impact on the special teams unit was undeniable. Ekeler transformed Tennessee’s special teams from an afterthought to one of the most reliable and dangerous units in the SEC. His energy, attention to detail, and ability to connect with players made him an integral part of the coaching staff, and his departure leaves a void that will not be easily filled.

While it’s disappointing to see Ekeler leave, his move to Nebraska represents a new chapter in his career, one where he will look to replicate his success in Lincoln. For Tennessee, the challenge now is to find a coach who can continue the work Ekeler started and keep the special teams unit performing at a high level.

Regardless of what the future holds, Mike Ekeler’s time at Tennessee will always be remembered for his passionate coaching and his ability to turn special teams into one of the Vols’ most valuable assets. His legacy will live on in the players he mentored and the impact he had on the program.