In the transformative NIL era of college sports, where student-athletes are now compensated for their performance, the role of the head football coach remains the highest-paying position within most college athletic programs. In fact, in several states, the head football coaches at major public universities rank as the top-paid state employees. This high-stakes position is under constant scrutiny as coaches are expected to secure victories weekly, while they must face inevitable criticism whenever their teams falter. The pressure to succeed not only affects their professional standing but also impacts recruitment and the overall program’s reputation.

Below is a comprehensive list of the highest-paid coaches in college football, ranked according to their average annual salaries.

All data sourced from (usatoday.com)

1. Kirby Smart, Georgia – Leading with a Record-Breaking $13,282,580

In a groundbreaking move, Kirby Smart signed a monumental 10-year contract in May 2024, valued at over $130 million, radically shifting the landscape for college coaches’ salaries. Currently, he outpaces his nearest competitor by more than $2 million annually, a gap that reflects his unparalleled success and the financial evolution of college football. As the sport’s financial climate continues to evolve, it is anticipated that Smart’s record salary may soon be challenged, but for now, he remains the benchmark for coaching salaries in college athletics.

2. Dabo Swinney, Clemson – A Tenured Coach Earning $11,132,775

Similar to Smart, Dabo Swinney also secured a lucrative 10-year extension worth nine figures, reinforcing his long-term commitment to Clemson. Despite expressing concerns regarding the NIL landscape and the transfer portal, Swinney’s consistent performance and leadership suggest he will continue to lead the Tigers for the foreseeable future. His legacy at Clemson is built on championship wins and a strong recruiting pipeline, factors that solidify his position among the highest-paid coaches in the nation.

3. Steve Sarkisian, Texas – A Rewarding Contract of $10,600,000

After demonstrating significant success over the previous three seasons, Steve Sarkisian received a substantial pay raise ahead of the 2024 season. His contract not only reflects his achievements but also includes unique perks such as two cars and limited access to a private plane, enhancing the overall value of his role. The prestige associated with being the head football coach at Texas comes with its own set of expectations and advantages, making Sarkisian’s position one of the most coveted in college sports.

4. Lincoln Riley, USC – Elevating Success with a $10,043,418 Salary

Lincoln Riley has consistently ranked among the top-paid coaches in college sports since his tenure at Oklahoma. His move to USC was marked by a significant pay increase of $2.5 million annually, reflecting the university’s confidence in his ability to replicate his previous successes in Southern California. With a history of winning and developing talent, Riley is positioned to lead USC into a new era of competitiveness in college football.

5. Ryan Day, Ohio State – Climbing to $10,021,250

Having risen through the ranks at Ohio State, Ryan Day was officially named the head coach in 2019. Since then, he has consistently received pay raises each season, culminating in his current lucrative deal signed in 2023. Day’s ability to maintain Ohio State’s status as a powerhouse in college football has solidified his place among the highest earners in the coaching profession.

6. Mike Norvell, Florida State – Committing $10,000,000 to NIL Initiatives

In a notable move, Mike Norvell made headlines in December 2024 by restructuring his contract to forgo $4.5 million, dedicating those funds to launch a fundraising campaign for Florida State’s NIL program. This selfless decision illustrates his commitment to enhancing the resources available for student-athletes. While he has the opportunity to earn back the funds through performance-based incentives, Norvell’s actions signal a growing trend among coaches to support their programs in innovative ways.

7. Kalen DeBoer, Alabama – A Strong $10,000,000 Contract

Recognizing his impressive track record at Washington, Kalen DeBoer was rewarded with a substantial contract as he stepped into the role of head coach at Alabama, succeeding the legendary Nick Saban. This strategic hiring demonstrates Alabama’s commitment to maintaining its dominance in college football. DeBoer’s contract, signed prior to the 2024 season, reflects high expectations for continued success and excellence on the field.

8. Bill Belichick, North Carolina – Transitioning to College with a $10,000,000 Contract

In a surprising move, legendary NFL coach Bill Belichick was appointed as the head coach at North Carolina in December 2024. This unexpected transition raises questions about his adaptability to the college game and his recruiting capabilities. While many are excited about this new chapter, Belichick’s legacy in the NFL presents both opportunities and challenges as he seeks to establish a successful program at the collegiate level.

9. Brian Kelly, LSU – Transitioning from Notre Dame with a Salary of $9,975,000

After making the significant move from Notre Dame to LSU in 2022, Brian Kelly signed a lucrative 10-year contract worth nearly $100 million. This transition underscores his ambition to compete at the highest level in college football and reflects LSU’s commitment to building a championship-caliber program. Kelly’s experience and success at Notre Dame are expected to translate into a powerful impact on the LSU football program.

10. Mark Stoops, Kentucky – Acknowledging Excellence with $9,013,600

In a clear demonstration of their seriousness about competing in the SEC, Kentucky rewarded long-time head coach Mark Stoops with a new contract and pay raise before the 2023 season. This decision not only reinforces Stoops’ position as one of the wealthiest coaches in college football but also highlights Kentucky’s commitment to enhancing their football program’s competitiveness in one of the toughest conferences in the nation.