Matt Rhule Secures Nebraska Extension, Exits Penn State Coaching Race
Matt Rhule has officially exited the coaching race at Penn State as he secures a substantial contract extension with the University of Nebraska. The Nebraska Cornhuskers head coach, an alumnus of Penn State, was previously considered a front-runner to replace James Franklin, who was recently dismissed from his position.
Details of Rhule’s Contract Extension
Sports Illustrated reports that Matt Rhule’s new multi-year contract will extend his stay in Nebraska beyond 2030. His salary will start at $7.5 million for the current season and will increase up to $12.5 million annually by the year 2030.
Potential Candidates for Penn State
- Curt Cignetti, head coach of the Indiana Hoosiers, has emerged as a strong candidate for the Penn State coaching vacancy.
- Cignetti has Pennsylvania connections, previously coaching at Indiana University of Pennsylvania.
- He recently received a significant contract extension, positioning him as the third-highest paid coach in college football.
Current Coaching Vacancies
The Penn State coaching position is one of several notable openings in college football, alongside LSU and Florida. Both programs have recently parted ways with their head coaches, Brian Kelly and Billy Napier, intensifying the competition for top coaching talent.
Expectations for the New Penn State Coach
Following James Franklin’s termination, Penn State’s athletic director, Pat Kraft, emphasized the need for the next coach to leverage elite-level resources, effectively utilize the transfer portal, and demonstrate exceptional developmental skills.
