The Top 10 Highest Paid Coaches in College Football 2024

By Jason Bolton January 15, 2024 10:10

Photo by Jordan Prather-Imagn Images

College football is a highly competitive and lucrative industry, with top coaches commanding substantial salaries. The 2023 season saw some significant coaching changes, with several high-profile coaches being fired despite their high earnings. As we head into the 2024 season, let's take a look at the top 10 highest-paid coaches in college football based on their annual salaries.

1. Nick Saban - University of Alabama - $11.4 Million

Nick Saban, the head coach of the University of Alabama, continues to reign as the highest-paid college football coach, earning an impressive $11.4 million annually. Saban's leadership has been instrumental in the success of the Alabama Crimson Tide, making him a highly sought-after and well-compensated figure in the college football coaching landscape.

2. Dabo Swinney - Clemson University - $10.9 Million

Dabo Swinney, the head coach of Clemson University, is the second-highest paid college football coach, making $10.9 million per year. Swinney's consistent success with the Clemson Tigers has solidified his position as one of the top coaches in the sport, reflected in his substantial annual earnings.

3. Kirby Smart - University of Georgia - $10.7 Million

Kirby Smart, leading the University of Georgia's football program, commands an annual salary of $10.7 million, securing the third spot among the highest-paid college football coaches. Smart's exceptional coaching abilities and the success of the Georgia Bulldogs have contributed to his impressive compensation package.

4. Ryan Day - Ohio State University - $10.3 Million

Ryan Day, the head coach of Ohio State University, is the fourth-highest paid college football coach, earning $10.3 million annually. Day's leadership has propelled the Ohio State Buckeyes to continued success, warranting his placement among the top earners in college football coaching.

5. Lincoln Riley - University of Southern California (USC) - Estimated $10 Million

Lincoln Riley, who recently joined the University of Southern California (USC) as the head coach, is estimated to earn $10 million annually, placing him in the fifth position among the highest-paid college football coaches. Riley's impressive track record and potential at USC have contributed to his substantial compensation package.

6. Brian Kelly - Louisiana State University (LSU) - $9.9 Million

Brian Kelly, the head coach of Louisiana State University (LSU), commands an annual salary of $9.9 million, securing the sixth spot among the highest-paid college football coaches. Kelly's proven coaching abilities and his recent move to LSU have resulted in a lucrative contract, reflecting his value in the college football coaching landscape.

7. Jimbo Fisher - Texas A&M University - $9.1 Million

Jimbo Fisher, leading the football program at Texas A&M University, earns an annual salary of $9.1 million, placing him in the seventh position among the highest-paid college football coaches. Fisher's coaching prowess and the success of the Texas A&M Aggies have contributed to his significant earnings.

8. Mark Stoops - University of Kentucky - $9.01 Million

Mark Stoops, the head coach of the University of Kentucky, commands an annual salary of $9.01 million, securing the eighth spot among the highest-paid college football coaches. Stoops' leadership and the performance of the Kentucky Wildcats have led to his inclusion among the top earners in college football coaching.

9. Josh Heupel - University of Tennessee - $9 Million

Josh Heupel, leading the University of Tennessee's football program, earns an annual salary of $9 million, placing him in the ninth position among the highest-paid college football coaches. Heupel's coaching abilities and the potential for success at Tennessee have resulted in his substantial compensation package.

10. Lane Kiffin - University of Mississippi - $9 Million

Lane Kiffin, the head coach of the University of Mississippi, also earns an annual salary of $9 million, securing the tenth spot among the highest-paid college football coaches. Kiffin's coaching acumen and the performance of the Ole Miss Rebels have led to his inclusion among the top earners in college football coaching.

the top 10 highest-paid college football coaches for the 2024 season represent a diverse group of talented leaders who have demonstrated their coaching prowess and achieved remarkable success within their respective programs. Their substantial salaries reflect the value and impact they bring to the college football landscape, as they continue to guide and shape the future of the sport.