Alabama agree new seven-year contract with head coach Kalen DeBoer
The University of Alabama has agreed a new seven-year contract with head football coach Kalen DeBoer worth $87.5m, extending his stay in Tuscaloosa until 2033.
The lucrative deal will see the 51-year-old earn a base salary of $12.5m per season.
It was officially approved by the university’s compensation committee during a virtual meeting on Wednesday.
The agreement adds two years to his previous terms and includes a $10m buyout clause that remains active until January 2027.
Replacing a legendary figure
The former Washington boss took charge of the Crimson Tide following the retirement of iconic coach Nick Saban in January 2024.
Saban walked away after guiding the illustrious program to six national championships, leaving behind a daunting rebuilding task.
Despite intense external pressure, the new man at the helm has navigated his first two campaigns with a commendable 20-8 overall record.
This impressive run includes an 8-4 mark against ranked opposition over the past two seasons.
Commitment amid fierce speculation
Following an 11-4 campaign that ended with a College Football Playoff quarter-final defeat by eventual champions Indiana, DeBoer was linked to other high-profile vacancies.
Rumours heavily connected him to prominent off-season openings at both Michigan and Penn State.
However, the experienced tactician did not interview with either institution, opting instead to cement his future with his current employers.
“We are excited about the opportunity to continue our time in Tuscaloosa with this contract extension,” DeBoer said in a statement.
“This program has a long history of success and an unmatched tradition that I was eager to be a part of two years ago, and I cannot wait to keep coaching our guys.”
Continuing a winning tradition
Prior to his arrival in the south, he led the Huskies to a stellar 14-1 season in 2023, culminating in a national championship game appearance.
His pedigree in major fixtures is undeniable, boasting 20 victories against ranked opponents since 2021.
Alabama athletics director Greg Byrne publicly praised the continued development of the squad under the current regime.
“We are pleased to extend Coach DeBoer and are proud to have him leading the Crimson Tide football program,” Byrne stated.
“He is an excellent coach and has done a commendable job developing our student-athletes.”
