When Louisiana State University (LSU) decided they needed a new head coach for their storied football program, they set their sights on Brian Kelly. A proven winner, Kelly had garnered success at every point in his coaching career, from Division II’s Grand Valley State to the storied program at Notre Dame. In convincing Kelly to leave the Fighting Irish for Baton Rouge, LSU had to offer a contract lucrative enough to command his talents. So, what does Kelly’s contract entail?

Breaking Down the Terms of Brian Kelly’s Contract

The contract LSU gave Kelly is a complex one, but a look at the specifics helps illuminate its full scope.

Base Salary and Bonus Structure

According to Steve Berkowitz of USA Today, Kelly’s base salary at LSU is $400,000. While this may seem low for a college football coach of his pedigree, the supplemental pay balloons his earnings considerably. By 2023, Kelly will earn $8.8 million and by 2031, this will grow to $9.6 million, with regular raises every two years.

Incentives and Performance Bonuses

The contract also includes numerous incentives and performance bonuses. For instance, if LSU becomes bowl-eligible under Kelly, he receives a $500,000 bonus. Each July 1 that he remains with LSU, another $500,000 bonus is added to his income. If he wins the SEC Championship, his supplemental pay increases by $250,000 annually. A national title would boost his pay by $500,000 each year.

Contract Length and Extension Provisions

The contract is designed to last until 2031, giving Kelly plenty of time to make his mark on the program. The contract is mostly guaranteed; unless he is fired for cause, LSU will owe him at least $95 million over the life of the contract.

Comparing Brian Kelly’s LSU Salary to Other Coaches

Only Nick Saban of Alabama earns more than Kelly among public school coaches, with a salary close to $10 million. This places Kelly in the elite ranks of college football compensation, indicative of the high expectations LSU has for him.

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Financial Implications for LSU Athletics

The substantial contract given to Kelly underscores the financial commitment that LSU is willing to make to return to the pinnacle of college football. It’s a high-risk, high-reward situation that could pay off handsomely in terms of championships and the associated revenue but could also strain the athletic department’s finances if things don’t go as planned.

With a 10-4 record in his first year and an appearance in the SEC Championship Game, Kelly has already shown signs of fulfilling LSU’s lofty expectations. However, the true measure of his impact will be whether he can deliver a national championship, something he couldn’t achieve at Notre Dame.

Brian Kelly’s Previous Coaching Contracts

Compared to his last contract at Notre Dame, which was reportedly around $7 million per year, Kelly’s LSU contract represents a significant financial step up and is reflective of the high stakes involved in SEC football.

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Public Reaction to the Contract Details

Public opinion has been divided. While some believe the investment in Kelly is justified due to his track record, others question the size of the contract, particularly given the other financial needs of an educational institution.

Future Expectations and Goals for Brian Kelly at LSU

The ultimate aim is clear: a national championship. LSU has invested in Kelly with the hope that he will bring them to the Promised Land, justifying this gargantuan contract.

Brian Kelly Coaching Career

Having had a successful run at multiple institutions, from Grand Valley State to Notre Dame, Brian Kelly has proved that he knows how to build winning programs. It’s this experience that LSU is banking on.

Conclusion

Brian Kelly’s contract with LSU is a multi-faceted financial package designed to lure in a proven winner. With a base salary and various incentives that could push his earnings well into the high millions annually, Kelly is now among the highest-paid college coaches. Whether this investment pays off will largely depend on his ability to win championships. The expectations are sky-high, but if anyone can deliver, it might just be Brian Kelly.

The spotlight is on; now it’s up to Kelly to prove his worth on the biggest stage in college football.

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