On Monday, it was announced that the Nebraska football program would be parting ways with defensive coordinator John Butler.
Butler joined the Huskers staff in 2024 as the secondary coach and pass game coordinator. He was elevated to defensive coordinator for the 2025 season following the departure of Tony White who left for Florida State.
Nebraska released a statement on Monday from head coach Matt Rhule stating that Butler would no longer be a member of the coaching staff.
“I informed John Butler earlier today that he will not be retained as defensive coordinator effective immediately. We thank John for his contributions to our football program over the past two seasons and wish him the best moving forward in his coaching career.”
During the season, Nebraska’s defense had difficulty stopping the run. Nebraska allowed 171.25 rushing yards per game which ranked 97th in the FBS. In Big Ten play, that number rose to 183 yards rushing per game.
Rhule named Phil Snow as interim defensive coordinator as the Huskers prepare for its bowl appearance later this year. Snow coordinated Rhule’s defenses at Baylor and the Carolina Panthers, among other stops, but chose not to immediately follow Rhule to Nebraska. He joined the staff this offseason as an associate head coach.
