ESPN REPORT: Former Nebraska Cornhusker Legend Ndamukong Suh Donates Entire $10.8 Million to Matt Rhule for New Stadium Project, Says ‘Nebraska Pride Lives Within Me Wherever I Go’
In a stunning and heartfelt gesture that has electrified the Nebraska football community, former Nebraska Cornhusker and NFL star Ndamukong Suh has donated the full $10.8 million required to jumpstart head coach Matt Rhule’s proposed stadium renovation project. According to an exclusive ESPN report, Suh made the donation personally and without hesitation, stating his unwavering commitment to the university and the state that helped launch his storied career.
“This isn’t just a donation,” Suh told ESPN. “It’s a statement. Nebraska pride lives within me wherever I go. Supporting the future of Husker football is a responsibility I gladly embrace.”
Suh, widely regarded as one of the most dominant defensive players in college football history, played for the Cornhuskers from 2005 to 2009. During his senior season, he earned consensus All-American honors and finished as a finalist for the Heisman Trophy—an almost unheard-of feat for a defensive lineman. He later went on to have a successful NFL career with teams including the Detroit Lions, Miami Dolphins, Los Angeles Rams, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers, winning a Super Bowl in 2021.
Coach Matt Rhule, who took over the Nebraska football program in 2023 with a vision to rebuild and reinvigorate the historic program, called Suh’s donation “transformational.”
“This is more than a financial gift,” Rhule said. “This is a legendary Cornhusker showing his belief in our future. Ndamukong’s leadership and love for this program will echo through generations.”
The $10.8 million donation will fully fund the initial phase of Nebraska’s ambitious stadium renovation plans, which include modernized training facilities, upgraded fan amenities, and expanded student-athlete resources. University officials confirmed that Suh’s contribution is one of the largest single donations by a former athlete in school history.
Suh has long been known for his philanthropy. In 2010, shortly after being drafted second overall in the NFL Draft, he donated $2.6 million to the Nebraska athletic department, establishing scholarships and funding academic initiatives. His latest gift underscores his enduring connection to the university and the broader Husker community.
“I’ve always said Nebraska made me who I am,” Suh added. “This is home. And home deserves the best.”
With this landmark donation, Nebraska football takes a bold step forward—and does so with one of its greatest legends leading the way.