Nebraska football has officially unveiled its special teams strategy for 2026, with former Husker standout Brett Maher stepping into the role of special teams coordinator, alongside Nick Humphrey as co-special teams coordinator.
Both Maher and Humphrey were already integral parts of the coaching staff under Mike Ekeler, who departed for a position at USC. Nebraska head coach Matt Rhule expressed confidence in the duo, highlighting their contributions to the team's special teams success last season.
"Brett Maher and Nick Humphrey are both rising stars in the coaching profession," Rhule stated. "Their work has been pivotal in elevating our special teams, and they’re ready to lead these units. Our aim is to maintain elite special teams play that directly contributes to winning."
Maher, who transitioned from a special teams consultant role in 2024 to a full-time assistant position in 2025, has already made a significant impact. Under his guidance, kicker Kyle Cunanan achieved remarkable accuracy, hitting 61 of 64 total kicks, including 16-of-19 field goals. Maher also developed true freshman punter Archie Wilson, who limited opponents to just 23 punt return yards, a feat not seen in three decades.
Before joining the coaching ranks, Maher had a successful NFL career, making 80 percent of his field goals over five seasons. Notably, he hit 34 field goals from beyond 50 yards. A two-time Big Ten Kicker of the Year and the 2011 Big Ten Punter of the Year, Maher set a Nebraska record with 119 kicking points in 2012 and was inducted into the Nebraska Football Hall of Fame in 2025.
Nick Humphrey, who came over with Ekeler from Tennessee, served as a special teams analyst in 2025. His expertise helped Nebraska achieve impressive national rankings: ninth in blocked punts, 10th in blocked kicks, and strong performances in various return and defensive categories.
Humphrey's background includes a stint as a special teams graduate assistant at Tennessee, where his efforts contributed to the Vols' 2024 College Football Playoff appearance. A former linebacker for Tennessee, Humphrey brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to Nebraska's special teams.
With Maher and Humphrey at the helm, Nebraska's special teams are poised for continued success, building on a foundation of strategic excellence and dynamic coaching.