College football coaches cash in with unprecedented $228 million in buyouts this year.

Record Buyouts for College Football Coaches This Season

The landscape of college football coaching is as cutthroat as ever, particularly at the Division I Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) level, where only 136 schools vie for elite status. Each season, expectations run high, yet many teams fall short, leading to the dismissal of head coaches. This season has seen unprecedented financial payouts, with 15 schools letting go of coaches who will collectively receive a staggering $228 million in buyouts. Here’s a closer look at the notable cases.

Top Buyouts in College Football Coaching

Brian Kelly, LSU: $54 million
After a tumultuous tenure, Brian Kelly was fired by LSU on October 26. Despite two seasons of ten wins, he failed to return the Tigers to the College Football Playoff. Following a mediocre start to this season, LSU’s decision was swift. Kelly is now pursuing legal action to secure his full buyout, while LSU has turned to Lane Kiffin as its new head coach.

Mark Stoops, Kentucky: $38 million
Mark Stoops, Kentucky’s all-time winningest coach, was relieved of his duties on December 1 after back-to-back losing seasons. The university is currently negotiating adjustments to his buyout, which stands as one of the largest in NCAA history.

Jonathan Smith, Michigan State: $33.5 million
Hired in 2023 to revitalize the Spartans, Jonathan Smith recorded disappointing back-to-back seasons of 5-7 and 4-8 before his firing. His buyout includes three additional months of health benefits, and he may receive assistance with payment should he find new employment.

Billy Napier, Florida: $21 million
With three championships under its belt, Florida has high expectations, yet Billy Napier’s record of 22-23 was insufficient. He was dismissed but quickly found a position at James Madison, allowing him to benefit from both buyouts.

Hugh Freeze, Auburn: $15.8 million
Hugh Freeze’s tenure at Auburn ended after two-and-a-half seasons, during which he compiled a 15-19 record. Despite being released, he will receive the full amount of his contract.

Mike Gundy, Oklahoma State: $15 million
Once a fan favorite for his memorable “I’m a man—I’m 40!” statement, Mike Gundy was let go after a remarkably long career of 21 years. He leaves with a solid record of 170-90, a Big 12 title, and 12 bowl victories.

Justin Wilcox, California: $10.9 million
As the head coach since 2017, Justin Wilcox saw moderate success, with his best season yielding an 8-5 record in 2019. However, his overall performance of 48-55 ultimately led to his dismissal.

Sam Pittman, Arkansas: $9.8 million
Sam Pittman’s journey to head coach was a long one, filled with various assistant roles. His best season resulted in a 9-4 record, but after a rocky start this year, he was let go following a significant loss to Notre Dame.

James Franklin, Penn State: $9 million
After a strong previous season, James Franklin was dismissed mid-season following a slow start. Initially having a buyout close to $49 million, he and the university negotiated a lesser payout upon accepting a new role at Virginia Tech.

Brent Pry, Virginia Tech: $6 million
Brent Pry was fired in September after failing to secure a win in his first three games, ending with a 16-21 record. Uniquely, he was later rehired as the defensive coordinator, effectively turning his buyout into a raise.

DeShaun Foster, UCLA: $5 million
After several years in various coaching roles, DeShaun Foster was appointed head coach in 2024 but struggled, resulting in a 5-7 record last season and an 0-3 start this year.

Trent Bray, Oregon State: $4 million
Promoted from defensive coordinator, Trent Bray’s time as head coach was short-lived, culminating in a 5-14 record before being let go.

Trent Dilfer, UAB: $2.4 million
Transitioning from a broadcasting career to coaching, Trent Dilfer led UAB to a challenging 9-21 record during his tenure before his dismissal.

Tim Beck, Coastal Carolina: $1.7 million
After a promising start with an 8-5 record, Tim Beck’s following seasons failed to meet expectations, ultimately leading to his firing.

Jay Norvell, Colorado State: $1.5 million
Jay Norvell’s move to Colorado State brought only one winning season, and a poor start this season led to his release.