College football has evolved into a massive enterprise, drawing fans and media attention similar to professional sports leagues. From ticket sales to merchandise, and lucrative TV rights deals, the landscape of college football is both competitive and profitable. The financial stakes have risen, leading to astronomical salaries for the coaches who lead these powerhouse programs. As we enter 2025, many are curious about which coaches top the pay scale while striving to steer their teams into the coveted College Football Playoff.
The Highest-Paid Coaches in College Football
The hierarchy of college football coaching salaries might not surprise those familiar with the sport; however, the specifics can be eye-opening. According to Sports Illustrated‘s College Football HQ, here’s a breakdown of the top earners, ranked according to their annual salaries:
1. Kirby Smart, Georgia ($13 million)
Returning to his alma mater, Kirby Smart has transformed the Georgia Bulldogs into a national powerhouse. After a notable tenure as Alabama’s defensive coordinator, he has led Georgia to two consecutive national championships and three SEC titles in nine seasons. With an impressive record of just 20 losses, Smart exemplifies the success and expectations associated with such a significant salary.
2. Ryan Day, Ohio State ($12.5 million)
Since taking the reins at Ohio State in 2019, Ryan Day has quickly established himself as one of the elite coaches in college football. Achieving a National Championship victory last season, his newfound contract reflects the school’s ambitions and his remarkable ability to guide the Buckeyes back to the top of college football. This pay bump positions him as the second-highest paid coach.
3. Curt Cignetti, Indiana ($11.6 million)
Curt Cignetti made waves upon his arrival at Indiana in 2024, bringing a history of turning underdog programs into contenders. His leadership guided the Hoosiers to their first-ever College Football Playoff appearance, leading to a substantial eight-year contract worth nearly $93 million. His success is a testament to his coaching prowess and the potential he’s unlocked at Indiana.
4. Lincoln Riley, USC ($11.5 million)
Lincoln Riley’s journey began at Oklahoma, but his current role at Southern California is fueled by the storied football tradition of the Trojans. Joining USC in 2022, he carries the expectations of returning the program to prominence, especially with the school’s recent transition to the competitive Big Ten Conference. His substantial coaching salary underscores the potential impact he can have on the team’s future.
5. Dabo Swinney, Clemson ($11.2 million)
One of only two coaches on this list with multiple national titles, Dabo Swinney has been synonymous with Clemson football since 2003. Over his tenure, he has amassed nine ACC titles and led his team to countless bowl appearances. His accolades and consistent performance keep him securely among the top earners in collegiate sports.
6. Steve Sarkisian, Texas ($10.8 million)
Steve Sarkisian’s coaching journey at Texas has been a whirlwind. After a challenging start, he has successfully turned the Longhorns into a force to reckon with, nudging them onto the College Football Playoff radar. His advanced offensive strategies and talent acquisition have been pivotal in elevating Texas from a struggling team back into the national conversation.
7. Dan Lanning, Oregon ($10.4 million)
Now in his fourth season, Dan Lanning has cemented his reputation with the Oregon Ducks. Successfully guiding the team to a Big Ten Championship and College Football Playoff appearance, Lanning has kept Oregon squarely in the national title race. With the Ducks ranked as a Top 5 team at the season’s start, the potential for further success makes his salary well justified.
8. Kalen DeBoer, Alabama ($10.25 million)
Taking the helm at Alabama comes with high stakes and expectations, especially following the legacy of Nick Saban. Kalen DeBoer, who previously excelled at Washington, is currently navigating the pressures of leading one of college football’s most scrutinized programs. His initial successes – and ongoing development – have showcased his ability to adapt and compete at this elite level.
9. Brian Kelly, LSU ($10.17 million)
Brian Kelly’s transition from Notre Dame to LSU has been a journey in itself. Despite some struggles in the highly competitive SEC, he has managed to lead the Tigers to three consecutive bowl appearances and an SEC Championship game. His previous successes bring a wealth of experience, and LSU’s investment reflects their ambitions for the program under his leadership.
10. Bill Belichick, North Carolina ($10.1 million)
Arguably the most notable outlier, Bill Belichick’s transition from the NFL to college football generated widespread media attention. With a legendary status forged through multiple Super Bowl victories, expectations for his success at North Carolina are astronomical. Although his performance thus far hasn’t met the hype, the financial commitment reflects the university’s aspirations to leverage his proven track record.
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