Matt Rhule explains Trev Alberts role in bringing him to Nebraska

Sometimes our jobs can take a toll on us that we often will not admit out loud. After being let go by the Carolina Panthers, Matt Rhule was worn out and in need of a change of environment. Enters into the picture, Nebraska Athletic Director Trev Alberts.

Alberts played a role in bringing Rhule to Nebraska. How big of a role? According to Rhule, big enough to convince him to come to Lincoln.

“I remember the first time I talked to Trevor on the phone, my wife was kind of nearby, and I was talking to him,” said Rhule. “And we were just talking about football; talking about the process and talking about player development, just a conversation. My wife, I looked over, and she’s like, it’s the first time I’ve seen you this happy in a long time. I’ve learned you can work really hard, but you don’t have to be miserable. Developing players and being in an environment where everybody loves each other like that really brought joy to me.

It wasn’t just Alberts, as Rhule continued. The connection he shared with university president Walter Carter also played a considerable role and bringing him to Cornhusker nation.

There were lots of hurdles. I wanted to make sure that this was the right place for my family. It’s not just about me… I’m dad first. And I don’t want to bring my kids and move them every three years.

It was because everyone trusted Trev and his vision… President Carter was at Navy when I was at Temple. So we had that crossover. So, president Carter having that history with me was really important to me as well.

Rhule reveals what he said to the players, expectations for them

Since taking over as the head coach at Nebraska, Matt Rhule has had a ton on his plate, including talking to players on the roster and scheduling talks with current coaches. Recently the new Cornhuskers headman revealed what he said to the players and his expectations for them as the team heads into the offseason.

“I started reaching out to the players as I could over the last couple of days via text and some phone calls,” said Rhule. “The message I had for them was I understand the position that they’re in. Not one player in that locker room signed up to play for me. Not one player was recruited by me chose to come here for me. But I wanted them to know that, ‘Hey I chose to come coach you. I’m here to be your coach; I’d like to be your coach.’”