Rhule Extension Through 2032 Ends Penn State Speculation

Nebraska has signed head coach Matt Rhule to a two-year contract extension through the 2032 season that raises his buyout to $15 million, keeps his base salary unchanged, and adds salary escalators tied to College Football Playoff appearances. Rhule publicly reaffirmed his commitment to Nebraska, language university leaders and athletic director Troy Dannen framed as a stabilizing move while the program builds. The Cornhuskers are 6-2 and bowl eligible and the staff is leaning on recruiting and NIL resources to continue progress. But Nebraska faces recruiting headwinds: its 2026 class currently ranks low nationally and in the Big Ten, and sought-after defensive end Damaad Lewis remains undecided after visiting Lincoln and scheduling a visit to Florida State. The extension effectively removes Rhule from serious consideration in Penn State’s coaching search, even as other names such as Lance Leipold and Curt Cignetti are discussed.