Louisiana State University (LSU) is pursuing one of the most lucrative contracts in college football history to entice Lane Kiffin, the head coach of Ole Miss, to Baton Rouge. According to a source familiar with the discussions, the proposed deal spans seven years and could be worth up to $98 million, not including potential bonuses. While a formal offer has yet to be presented, LSU aims to establish a competitive edge in terms of revenue sharing and Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities.
Kiffin is anticipated to make a decision regarding his future following the Egg Bowl against Mississippi State on November 28, 2023, as noted by Keith Carter, Ole Miss’s athletics director. If finalized, the contract would average $14 million annually, placing Kiffin as the highest-paid coach in college football. Currently, Kirby Smart of Georgia holds the record with an annual salary of $13.3 million.
The intricacies of Louisiana’s state laws complicate the provision of high-paying contracts for university employees. As a result, LSU’s proposal is likely to feature “easy-to-achieve” incentive bonuses, according to the source. The base salary for Kiffin is expected to be slightly above $3 million, with additional funding from outside sources and incentives potentially increasing the total value of the contract beyond the $98 million mark.
Currently, Kiffin earns around $9 million at Ole Miss, ranking him sixth among SEC coaches. His reputation as a highly sought-after candidate this coaching season has attracted interest from several prominent programs, including LSU and Florida. Reports suggest that LSU is gaining momentum in its efforts to secure Kiffin’s services.
In addition to the substantial contract offer, LSU is reportedly pledging NIL and revenue-sharing investments exceeding $25 million. The Rebels, currently ranked sixth with a record of 10-1, are on the verge of qualifying for the College Football Playoff for the first time in the program’s history, thanks in part to Kiffin’s leadership, which has led to three consecutive 10-win seasons.
Kiffin met with Carter on Friday to discuss his future, as Ole Miss recently initiated contract negotiations with him. Should Kiffin decide to remain with Ole Miss, the program is prepared to make him one of the highest-paid coaches in the nation. Sources indicated that discussions earlier this month were “positive,” although no definitive agreement has been reached.
During a recent teleconference, Kiffin deflected inquiries regarding his future, maintaining focus on the current season. He remarked, “I’m saying the same thing for six years. I’m not talking about speaking on other jobs. I’m focused on this one.” His comments came shortly after reports indicated that a plane carrying family members had flown to both Gainesville and Baton Rouge within consecutive days.
Carter emphasized the importance of Kiffin’s focus on the upcoming Egg Bowl, stating, “Despite the outside noise, Coach Kiffin is focused on preparing our team for the Egg Bowl, and together, we want to ensure that our players and coaches can concentrate fully on next Friday’s game.” He acknowledged that the team is poised for an unprecedented season and that support from the Ole Miss community is crucial in the week ahead.
In nearly six seasons at Ole Miss, Kiffin has compiled a record of 54-19, including four seasons with at least 10 wins. As the coaching carousel continues to spin, Kiffin remains at the forefront of discussions regarding future coaching vacancies in college football.
