In a groundbreaking announcement that has sent waves through the world of college football and Husker Nation, former Nebraska Cornhusker legend and NFL All-Pro defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh has pledged the entirety of a $10.8 million donation to head coach Matt Rhule’s ongoing Nebraska Stadium Renovation Project. Suh, widely regarded as one of the most dominant defensive players in college football history, made the announcement during a press conference held at Memorial Stadium earlier today.
“I may have left Lincoln years ago, but Nebraska has never left me,” Suh said, standing at the 50-yard line with Coach Rhule and university officials. “This isn’t just a donation—it’s an investment in the next generation of Huskers, in a program that built me, and in a future I still deeply believe in.”
The $10.8 million gift represents the single largest individual donation from a former player in the history of Nebraska Athletics. University officials confirmed that the funds will be used primarily to accelerate phase one of the stadium renovation initiative, which includes modernized locker rooms, expanded player facilities, and fan experience upgrades designed to keep Memorial Stadium among the elite venues in college football.
Matt Rhule, who took over the reins of the storied program with a commitment to restoring its championship pedigree, praised Suh’s gesture as “visionary and transformational.”
“Ndamukong’s generosity and unwavering support for this program speak volumes about his character,” Rhule said. “He’s not just giving back—he’s building forward. He’s helping create a foundation that will elevate Nebraska Football for generations.”
Suh, who starred for the Huskers from 2005 to 2009 and was a Heisman Trophy finalist in his senior year, went on to a storied NFL career with the Detroit Lions, Miami Dolphins, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and Philadelphia Eagles. He earned numerous accolades, including multiple Pro Bowl selections and a Super Bowl title with the Buccaneers. Despite his professional success, Suh has remained deeply connected to the University of Nebraska, contributing to academic and athletic programs and mentoring young athletes.
“The pride I have in being a Husker is something that lives within me every day,” Suh said. “Whether I’m on a football field, in a boardroom, or at home with my family—Nebraska’s values of grit, resilience, and community always guide me.”
In addition to the donation, Suh announced plans to launch a leadership and mentorship initiative in partnership with Nebraska Athletics aimed at helping student-athletes prepare for life beyond football.
University President Ted Carter and Athletic Director Trev Alberts both expressed their heartfelt gratitude. “This is more than philanthropy,” said Alberts. “This is legacy. Ndamukong Suh is a cornerstone of what it means to be a Husker, and today, he’s ensured that legacy will endure.”
As Husker fans celebrate this historic gift, one thing is clear: Ndamukong Suh’s heart beats with Nebraska pride, and with his bold act of giving, the future of Husker Football just got a whole lot brighter.
