USC Hires Mike Ekeler to Boost Special Teams Ahead of 2026 Season

USC is already making waves ahead of the 2026 college football season, combining aggressive moves in the transfer portal with key coaching hires. After the Trojans’ collapse in the Alamo Bowl, head coach Lincoln Riley has faced scrutiny and is taking steps to ensure USC competes for a College Football Playoff berth next season. One of his first moves: hiring a proven special teams coach in Mike Ekeler.

Ekeler, departing Nebraska after just one season, brings a reputation as one of the nation’s top assistants. His impact in Lincoln Riley’s system is expected to be immediate, particularly given USC’s ambitions to dominate in all phases of the game. The Trojans have been active in both recruiting and staffing, and Ekeler represents a key piece of their rebuild.

CBS Sports reporter Matt Zenitz was among the first to report Ekeler’s move from Nebraska to USC. Over the past three seasons, Ekeler has quickly established himself as a coach capable of transforming special teams units, leaving a noticeable mark wherever he has worked.

His resume highlights both special teams and defensive experience, giving Riley flexibility and a multi-dimensional coach to address multiple areas of improvement. USC’s move reflects a strategic effort to shore up weaknesses while building on a talented roster.

1. Track Record of Success

Ekeler’s impact at Nebraska was immediate and measurable. In 2025, the Cornhuskers’ special teams went from a liability to a strength, dramatically improving in nearly every category. Nebraska allowed zero blocked kicks after surrendering seven the previous year and managed to block three kicks of their own, tied for ninth in the nation. The team’s return game also soared. Kenneth Williams led the Big Ten with 32.9 yards per kick return, earning second-team All-Big Ten honors, while the team averaged 13.6 yards per punt return. Field goal accuracy and punting also improved significantly under Ekeler’s guidance. Ekeler’s background combines special teams with defensive coaching experience. He coached Nebraska’s outside linebackers from 2008 to 2010 and later served as Tennessee’s special teams coordinator and outside linebackers coach from 2021 to 2024. This blend of expertise allows him to contribute strategically in multiple areas, a valuable trait for a team aiming for a playoff run. His recognition includes a nomination for the Broyles Award, given to the nation’s top assistant coach, underscoring his standing among college football’s elite coordinators. USC will be hoping that his expertise translates into a similar transformation for their special teams units.

2. Versatility and Leadership

In addition to special teams, Ekeler briefly contributed to Nebraska’s defensive front in the Las Vegas Bowl amid a staff overhaul. While the role was temporary, it demonstrates his adaptability and willingness to help wherever needed, traits Lincoln Riley values as he looks to build a championship-caliber team. USC’s current roster and incoming recruits offer a strong foundation, and the addition of a high-profile assistant like Ekeler rounds out the coaching staff. His ability to mentor players, refine fundamentals, and create game-changing special teams plays will be a significant asset. The Trojans have been aggressive in the transfer portal, targeting players who can contribute immediately. Ekeler’s expertise may enhance the development of these additions, particularly in field positioning, kick coverage, and return game efficiency. With a combination of roster talent, transfer additions, and a revitalized coaching staff, USC is signaling a serious intent to contend in 2026. Ekeler’s hiring represents one of several strategic moves aimed at returning the Trojans to national prominence.

3. Looking Ahead

Lincoln Riley’s first full season after the Alamo Bowl loss will test USC’s ability to integrate new talent and staff into a championship-level team. Special teams, often overlooked, can be a decisive factor in close games, making Ekeler’s role critical. The Trojans’ offseason activity, from coaching hires to transfers and recruiting, reflects a program committed to excellence. If Ekeler can replicate his Nebraska success, USC could gain a notable edge in field position, scoring, and momentum-shifting plays. As USC prepares for 2026, fans and analysts alike will watch how the Trojans leverage Ekeler’s experience to compete at the highest level. His hiring signals a broader commitment to detail, discipline, and improvement across all facets of the game. Ekeler’s arrival is the latest step in USC’s aggressive push to reestablish itself as a playoff contender and national powerhouse.