Alabama Coach DeBoer Gets $87 Million Deal

Alabama's new coach Kalen DeBoer has a new contract worth $87 million over 8 years. This deal makes him one of the highest-paid coaches in college football.
By Newsroom | Sports, College Football |

TUSCALOOSA, AL – Kalen DeBoer, the new head football coach at the University of Alabama, has finalized an eight-year contract valued at a minimum of $87 million. The agreement, formally approved by the UA System Board of Trustees' compensation committee on March 18, 2024, places DeBoer among the nation's highest-paid college football coaches. His initial annual compensation averages $10.875 million.

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The financial commitment underscores a significant investment in DeBoer, who succeeded legendary coach Nick Saban and led Washington to the national championship game in his second season there. The contract also details substantial financial implications for both the university and the coach should the agreement be terminated.

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Contractual Framework and Financial Obligations

DeBoer's agreement stipulates a series of escalating performance-based incentives. These include monetary rewards for reaching the SEC Championship Game ($75,000) and winning it ($125,000). Further incentives are tied to College Football Playoff (CFP) appearances, with escalating amounts for reaching the quarterfinals ($250,000), semifinals ($400,000), the national championship game ($600,000), and ultimately winning the CFP title ($875,000).

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The contract also addresses buyouts. Should DeBoer depart Alabama, the financial penalties vary by year:

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  • 2024: $5 million owed by DeBoer.

  • 2025: $4 million.

  • 2026: $3 million.

  • 2027-2031: $0.

Conversely, if Alabama terminates DeBoer's contract "without cause," the university would owe 90% of his remaining contract value, paid out in monthly installments. This figure represents a substantial financial exposure for the institution, particularly in the early years of the deal. For instance, if fired in 2024, the payout would be approximately $78.3 million; in 2025, around $69.3 million; and in 2026, approximately $60.075 million.

Broader Institutional Investments

The significant investment in DeBoer is mirrored by financial adjustments for other key athletic personnel. Athletic Director Greg Byrne has also secured an eight-year contract, projected to pay him just over $2 million annually. Basketball coach Nate Oats has received a raise and an extension, with his previous deal valued at $4.5 million annually through the 2029 season. Oats' new contract includes a substantial buyout of $18 million if he leaves within the first two years, reportedly the highest in college basketball.

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Several assistant coaches on DeBoer's staff have also been awarded multi-year agreements. Notably:

  • Offensive Coordinator/Quarterbacks Coach Nick Sheridan received a three-year deal worth $4.5 million.

  • Defensive Coordinator Kane Wommack is set to earn $1.55 million in 2024.

  • Associate Head Coach/Defensive Line Coach Freddie Roach will make $1 million in his first year and $1.1 million in his second.

  • Assistant Head Coach/Running Backs Coach Robert Gillespie's two-year deal totals $1.7 million.

Additional provisions for DeBoer include a monthly phone stipend and access to a private jet, along with a skybox at Bryant-Denny Stadium for home games, including parking and tickets.

Context of the Coaching Transition

DeBoer, 49 years old at the time of the contract's approval, was hired to replace Nick Saban, who retired after a storied tenure that included six national championships at Alabama. DeBoer's arrival followed his successful two-year stint at Washington, where he compiled a 19-7 record in his first two seasons at Alabama, leading the team to playoff appearances. His tenure at Alabama has been marked by high expectations, particularly following the significant investment and the legacy he is tasked with upholding. The deal was formally finalized around March 2024, with reporting and approvals occurring in late 2023 and early 2024.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How much is Kalen DeBoer's new contract with Alabama?
Kalen DeBoer has signed an eight-year contract with the University of Alabama that is worth at least $87 million. His average yearly pay is about $10.875 million.
Q: Why did Alabama give Kalen DeBoer such a large contract?
Alabama hired DeBoer to replace legendary coach Nick Saban. DeBoer led Washington to the national championship game, showing he can lead a successful team.
Q: What happens if Kalen DeBoer leaves Alabama before his contract ends?
If DeBoer leaves Alabama, he will have to pay a penalty that decreases each year. In 2024, the penalty is $5 million, but it drops to $0 from 2027 to 2031.
Q: What happens if Alabama fires Kalen DeBoer without a good reason?
If Alabama fires DeBoer without cause, the university must pay him 90% of the money left on his contract. This could be about $78.3 million if he is fired in 2024.
Q: Are other coaches at Alabama also getting new contracts?
Yes, Athletic Director Greg Byrne also received an eight-year contract worth over $2 million per year. Basketball coach Nate Oats also got a raise and extension, and several assistant coaches received multi-year deals.