Nebraska Football Notes: Mike Ekeler’s ‘Culture’ for Returners, Addison Williams Bullish on DBs
As the Nebraska Cornhuskers prepare for the upcoming football season, several key figures within the coaching staff are emphasizing their visions for a more aggressive and competitive squad. Two notable coaches, Mike Ekeler and Addison Williams, are setting the tone for important positional groups: special teams returners and defensive backs.
Mike Ekeler’s Focus on ‘Culture’ for Returners
Mike Ekeler, Nebraska’s special teams coordinator, has made it clear that he wants to foster a culture of toughness and resilience among his returners. Special teams have long been a crucial part of any successful program, and Ekeler’s approach is designed to ensure that every player on the field takes pride in their role, whether they’re making a big play or maintaining discipline on the line.
“The biggest thing I’ve focused on is the culture around special teams,” Ekeler said in a recent interview. “We have a mentality where our returners are not just guys catching the ball—they’re leaders on the team.” Ekeler believes that special teams should be treated with the same intensity as the offense or defense, requiring players to maintain a high level of accountability, hustle, and mental toughness.
The Huskers are placing a significant emphasis on returners who are not only fast and agile but also mentally tough and unafraid of taking on physical challenges. Ekeler has been working closely with players to develop their ball-handling skills, while also creating an environment where each individual is held accountable for their performance. With players like wide receiver Billy Kemp and running back Emmett Johnson vying for return duties, Ekeler’s program is about more than just making big plays—it’s about creating a well-rounded, tough-minded special teams unit.
This “culture” approach is designed to transform special teams from a support role into an integral aspect of the Cornhuskers’ overall success, ensuring that every return can be an opportunity for explosive plays. Ekeler is optimistic that this philosophy will pay dividends as the season progresses, with special teams potentially swinging games in Nebraska’s favor.
Addison Williams is Bullish on Defensive Backs
Addison Williams, Nebraska’s defensive backs coach, is equally confident about his unit’s potential heading into the season. While the defensive backfield has seen turnover in recent years, Williams has instilled a mentality that aims to elevate the group to new heights in 2025.
“Right now, we have some players who are stepping up and buying into what we’re doing defensively,” Williams shared. “The biggest thing is we’re not just focusing on skill development, but mindset development. We want DBs who are aggressive, tough, and ready to make plays when it matters most.”
Nebraska’s defensive backs unit has shown considerable promise during offseason workouts and spring practices. Williams has worked tirelessly to instill a physical and aggressive playstyle, emphasizing both technique and attitude. He’s particularly high on players like Myles Farmer, who has demonstrated strong leadership and ball skills. Williams believes that the right combination of youth and experience will allow Nebraska’s secondary to thrive in 2025.
With the growing importance of passing games across college football, Williams knows that his defensive backs will play a critical role in Nebraska’s success. By building confidence, fostering competition within the group, and emphasizing physicality, Williams is hopeful that his unit will help solidify a defense capable of competing at the highest level.
In conclusion, both Mike Ekeler’s vision for special teams and Addison Williams’ confidence in the defensive backs showcase the kind of leadership Nebraska football is building under its current coaching staff. With a strong emphasis on mental toughness, competition, and accountability, the Cornhuskers are primed to make strides in areas that are often overlooked but can have a major impact on their season. As spring ball progresses, both coaches are eager to see how their players translate these philosophies into tangible success on the field.
