Ex-Nebraska interim coach Mickey Joseph, 54, is arrested on suspicion of strangulation and assault

Mickey Joseph, the ex-interim coach for the Nebraska football team, was arrested Wednesday for strangulation and third degree domestic assault, Lincoln Police said.

Police were dispatched to a home to respond to a domestic disturbance call at 1:54 local time.

He was later brought to Lancaster County jail.

Joseph coached nine games for the Cornhuskers this season after former head coach Scott Frost was fired on September 11.

The 54-year-old led the team to a 3-6 record while in charge, and expressed interest in leading the team on a permanent basis.

But Nebraska announced former Baylor and Carolina Panthers coach Matt Rhule as their new head coach this week, and athletic director Trev Alberts said Wednesday the program had placed Joseph on administrative leave.

Mickey Joseph’s future at Nebraska appears unclear after his arrest

Joseph was arrested Wednesday for strangulation and third degree domestic assault

Joseph’s updated contract after being named interim coach said he was due to return to his previous role as wide receivers coach, passing game coordinator and associate head coach if an external hire was brought in, according to ESPN.

Rhule didn’t indicate whether he planned on keeping Joseph in his introductory press conference on Monday, but offered praise for him.

‘Mickey did a fantastic job,’ Rhule said Monday. 

‘I’ve known Coach Joseph for a while before that, not personally but professionally. He’s an excellent recruiter and players love him, so I’m anxious to have a chance to visit with him and the rest of the staff.’