Clemson is holding fast to the man who pushed its football program to the top.
Dabo Swinney agreed to the biggest coaching contract in college football history, the school announced on Friday, giving the 49-year-old a 10-year, $93 million contract that will pay him as much as $10 million base salary per season at its peak. He’ll now be on the Clemson sidelines through 2028.
Swinney has guided the Tigers to two of the past three College Football Playoff titles and sent a host of players to the NFL ranks — with New York Giants defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence being one of three Clemson alums selected in the first round of Thursday’s NFL draft. He’s put together a 116-30 record in 11 seasons at the school, with eight straight 10-win seasons and the past four ACC titles.
“With this contract, we make a collective statement that we intend to continue pursuing championships and developing total student-athletes for years to come,” Swinney said via press release. “Our sustained continuity in vision, people and culture has been a key ingredient to our success, on- and off-the field. I am thankful for the leadership we have at Clemson and appreciate all they do for Clemson football. I am truly blessed to be your head football coach.”
In the first seven seasons, Swinney’s salary will be second to Nick Saban’s $9.44 million per at Alabama, though he’ll surpass that come 2026.
The deal is laden with incentives that could earn the coach an additional $8.5 million over the life of the contract: $150,000 for winning the ACC title game, $200,000 apiece for appearances in the national semifinals and championship game, $250,000 for winning the CFP championship and $50,000 for taking home coach of the year honors.
Should he have second thoughts about his long-term payday, there’s a buyout option in the contract that could cost as high as $4 million — possibly more if he were to go back to his alma mater at Alabama, which would tack on an additional $2 million. If the school changes its mind about the arrangement, it could cost up to $50 million to move on from Swinney.