The top ten earners among college football coaches revealed.

In the evolving landscape of college football, head coaches are increasingly commanding astronomical salaries. The journey from a $500,000 annual salary in the 1980s to today’s multi-million dollar contracts illustrates the sport’s financial evolution, driven by lucrative television deals and endorsement opportunities. Recently, Lane Kiffin’s move from Ole Miss to LSU has drawn significant attention as he steps into one of the highest-paying coaching positions in sports. This article explores the highest-paid college football coaches in 2023, shedding light on Lane Kiffin’s staggering new contract and others who follow close behind.

The Rise of Multi-Million Dollar Contracts

In the 1980s, major conference college football coaches earned between $100,000 and $400,000. At the time, Oklahoma’s Barry Switzer and Alabama’s Ray Perkins were at the pinnacle, raking in around $500,000 annually. A significant milestone was reached in 1990 when Georgia Tech’s Bobby Ross broke the $1 million mark following a national championship win. Over the years, other legendary coaches like Lou Holtz and Steve Spurrier soon joined the ranks of seven-figure earners.

Fast forward to today, the average salary for top program head coaches has skyrocketed to approximately $10 million per year. This transformation has largely been fueled by tremendous television contracts and name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals.

Lane Kiffin’s Controversial Move to LSU

This week, Lane Kiffin announced his departure from Ole Miss mid-season, just as the team stands poised for its best season on record. The lure? A reported $90 million guaranteed contract from LSU. Kiffin’s new agreement will elevate his salary to $13 million annually, an increase from $9 million, with potential raises based on playoff performances. Interestingly, Kiffin’s contract includes a buyout clause that guarantees 80% of his remaining salary if he is dismissed without cause. Should that occur in the first year, he would be entitled to $72.8 million, receiving monthly installments through 2032, regardless of future employment.

Remarkably, despite this substantial deal, Kiffin is not the highest-paid college coach. That distinction goes to…

The 10 Highest Paid College Football Coaches

#10. Josh Heupel – Tennessee ($9.0 million/year)

Josh Heupel has cemented his status among top coaches after leading Tennessee to an 11-2 season in 2022. His extension through 2029 reflects the program’s commitment and belief in his capability to navigate the SEC landscape successfully. His buyout is around $37.5 million, demonstrating Tennessee’s financial stake in his future.

#9. Bill Belichick – North Carolina ($10.1 million/year)

North Carolina made headlines by hiring legendary NFL coach Bill Belichick, who signed a five-year, $50 million contract. While the results have been mixed thus far, the school remains optimistic about Belichick’s potential to translate his NFL success into college football. His contract includes over $20 million guaranteed if the university decides to part ways early.

#8. Kalen DeBoer – Alabama ($10.25 million/year)

Taking over for Nick Saban is a formidable challenge, but Alabama has handed the reins to Kalen DeBoer, who accepted an eight-year contract worth $10.25 million annually. This deal features substantial bonuses tied to SEC championships and playoff appearances, with a reported $60+ million buyout ensuring the school’s long-term commitment to the coach.

#7. Dan Lanning – Oregon ($10.4 million/year)

Oregon recognizes Dan Lanning’s rapid transformation of the program, making him one of college football’s highest-paid young coaches with an annual salary of approximately $10.4 million. His contract, which spans several years, includes a buyout estimated between $50-$60 million, underscoring Oregon’s ambition to remain competitive.

#6. Steve Sarkisian – Texas ($10.8 million/year)

Steve Sarkisian’s salary ballooned to $10.8 million, following two major contract extensions driven by consecutive College Football Playoff appearances. Texas is heavily invested in Sarkisian’s vision, evident in the more than $60 million buyout attached to his contract as the school aims for championships in the SEC.

#5. Dabo Swinney – Clemson ($11.3 million/year)

Under Dabo Swinney’s leadership, Clemson achieved remarkable success, leading to a lucrative 10-year, $115 million contract. His current $11.3 million salary is justified by two national championships. Despite roster changes, Clemson’s commitment to Swinney remains unwavering, backed by a nearly $60 million buyout.

#4. Lincoln Riley – USC (~$11.5 million/year)

Although USC does not disclose specific figures due to its private status, sources indicate Lincoln Riley’s salary exceeds $11 million annually. His transition from Oklahoma was met with great expectations, but with certain inconsistencies so far, USC remains dedicated to Riley’s long-term vision.

#3. Ryan Day – Ohio State ($12.5 million/year)

Ryan Day has successfully upheld expectations at Ohio State, leading the team to multiple playoff appearances and securing a seven-year contract valued at approximately $12.5 million per year. The deal is designed to ensure stability as the program remains competitive.

#2. Lane Kiffin – LSU ($13.0 million/year)

Lane Kiffin’s move to LSU has become a major talking point in college football. His seven-year, $90 million contract not only offers a remarkable annual salary but also aggressive buyout clauses that guarantee significant financial protection.

#1. Kirby Smart – Georgia ($13.3 million/year)

Kirby Smart’s ten-year, $130 million contract positions him as the highest-paid college football coach globally, earning $13.3 million annually. Georgia’s investment reflects the program’s success under Smart, which includes multiple national championships. The contract ensures long-term financial commitment to maintain Georgia’s competitive edge.