ABC News: Matt Rhule Shuts Down Exit Rumors, Reaffirms Commitment to the Nebraska Cornhuskers “I am not leaving, money is not everything,” dismisses transfer wide receiver Hardley Gilmore IV.
Lincoln, Nebraska – Nebraska Cornhuskers Head Coach Matt Rhule issued a forceful and authoritative statement on Tuesday, openly addressing mounting speculation about his possible departure from the program amid interest from both collegiate and professional organizations. Rhule left no space for ambiguity: he is remaining in Lincoln.
“I am not leaving,” Rhule said during a press conference at Memorial Stadium. “Money isn’t everything. My purpose is to be with this team, this university, and these fans. We’ve begun something substantial, and I’m not walking away from that.”
The announcement follows several days of media speculation linking Rhule’s name to coaching positions in the SEC and NFL. However, Rhule made it obvious that his dedication to rebuilding Nebraska football is unshakeable. In his words, Nebraska symbolizes “a mission bigger than football”—a tradition-rich program eager to reclaim national relevance.
A Statement of Loyalty
Matt Rhule was hired in late 2022 to lead a Nebraska team in need of culture, structure, and long-term vision. From the start, he stressed building from the inside out, reintroducing toughness, discipline, and identity to a club that had strayed from its championship foundations.
Now, just over a year into his stay, Rhule has revived fan enthusiasm, secured outstanding recruiting classes, and fostered a team-first culture. His public comments only strengthened that trust.
“I came to Nebraska because I believe in the people,” he remarked. “It’s not just a job. It’s a call. The kind of change we’re making does not happen overnight—and I intend to see it through.”
Dismissal of WR Hardley Gilmore IV
Along with his repeated commitment, Rhule announced the expulsion of transfer wide receiver Hardley Gilmore IV from the football program. Gilmore, a highly ranked recruit from Florida, transferred to Nebraska earlier this year but allegedly broke team norms and expectations.
While Rhule did not go into detail, he stated that the program treats all athletes to the same standards, regardless of rating or potential.
“I wish Hardley all the best in his future,” Rhule remarked. “But at Nebraska, we’ll do things the proper way. Accountability, discipline, and team cohesiveness are important here. “If those values are not respected, we will have to make difficult decisions.”
Dismissal of WR Hardley Gilmore IV
Along with his repeated commitment, Rhule announced the expulsion of transfer wide receiver Hardley Gilmore IV from the football program. Gilmore, a highly ranked recruit from Florida, transferred to Nebraska earlier this year but allegedly broke team norms and expectations.
While Rhule did not go into detail, he stated that the program treats all athletes to the same standards, regardless of rating or potential.
“I wish Hardley all the best in his future,” Rhule remarked. “But at Nebraska, we’ll do things the proper way. Accountability, discipline, and team cohesiveness are important here. “If those values are not respected, we will have to make difficult decisions.”
A Clear Message.
Rhule’s handling of both situations—loyalty to Nebraska and rejection of a bright talent—sends a powerful message about Lincoln’s culture. It is a culture founded on purpose, not profit; accountability, not entitlement.
Nebraska Athletic Director Trev Alberts complimented Rhule for his unwavering leadership. “Coach Rhule is everything we hoped for: a man of ethics and vision. Today, he demonstrated once again why he is the best person to oversee this initiative.”
As whispers recede and attention shifts back to the field, Nebraska’s future under Matt Rhule appears focused, grounded, and unwaveringly devoted. For Cornhusker Nation, that is more than enough.
“We’re building something special here,” Rhule added. “And I’m here for the long haul.”