Sat Dec 06 01:10:00 UTC 2025: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Dan Mullen Embraces NFL Model at UNLV, Cites Evolution as Key to Rebels’ Success
LAS VEGAS, NV – UNLV Rebels head coach Dan Mullen is adapting to the changing landscape of college football. After returning to coaching, Mullen says he’s a calmer coach who now runs his program a bit more like an NFL program. Citing the evolving nature of the game and the current generation of players, Mullen has embraced a more relaxed and player-centric approach, while still emphasizing development and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
“I’ve changed a lot,” Mullen said in a recent interview. “Kids are different. It’s a different time. But you want to make sure they understand the most important thing is still their development. But we make sure it’s done within one-year cycles. You’re still running a program for the big picture, but you’re focused on a one-year team.”
Mullen, who previously coached at Florida, notes a significant shift in his coaching style. “I would think (players) would say I’m probably a little more relaxed now than I used to be. It’s the approach of how I handle everything on a daily basis for our players. How I handle them, how I coach them, how I talk to them, because times are different. We’re a little more into the NFL mentality of how you run an NFL program rather than running an old school college football program.”
Players have noticed the change. Tight end Nick Elksnis, who previously knew Mullen from his time at Florida, describes the coach as “a little more laid back. He’s definitely calmer. But if he needs to bring out that old school coach in Dan Mullen, he can. It’s a good thing because when he does, everybody is like, ‘O.K., it’s time to get back to work. He means business.” Defensive end Chief Borders also praised Mullen’s character, noting, “Definitely just a real man who has always been solid about who he is. He will always have your back. He’s a players’ coach who talks about excellence and diligence from Florida until now. These years have shown his resiliency. Now he has us competing for a Mountain West championship. It shows a lot about the person, as both a man and a coach. The real Dan Mullen is who he is every day.”
Mullen’s adaptive leadership appears to be paying dividends, as the Rebels are currently competing for a Mountain West championship. His emphasis on player development, coupled with a more relaxed and NFL-inspired program structure, has created a positive and productive environment in Las Vegas.
About UNLV Athletics
The UNLV Rebels compete in the Mountain West Conference and represent the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.
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