Arizona State Rewards Dillingham with New Contract

In a stunning move, Arizona State University has solidified its commitment to football by awarding head coach Kenny Dillingham a lucrative new five-year contract that places him among the highest earners in Big 12 coaching salaries.

Sources from ESPN revealed that this new deal not only reflects the success of the past season but also paves the way for potential extensions that could stretch the contract to ten years.

Contract Structure and Performance Incentives

Due to Arizona's state laws limiting state school contracts to five years, the contract includes performance incentives that effectively create a "pathway" to extend for an additional five years.

This bold decision comes fresh off Arizona State's remarkable rise in the Big 12, culminating in their first outright conference title since 1996 and securing a playoff spot against Texas in the College Football Playoff quarterfinals.

Enhancements to University Football Program

The new contract is accompanied by significant enhancements to the football program, including an increase of 20 scholarships that will bring the total roster size to 105 players next season.

Furthermore, ASU intends to ramp up its operational budget, a move that indicates their ambition to compete at the highest level.

Ambitious Goals for the Program

A source close to the negotiations emphasized ASU's goal: “We are in the national conversation, and we want to ensure our program has the resources necessary to consistently compete and attract top-tier coaching talent as well as recruit elite players.”

Dillingham's Compensation and Performance Bonuses

Despite being in the lower tier of Big 12 head coach salaries at $4.05 million, Dillingham's earnings have skyrocketed due to performance bonuses, surpassing $2.5 million after leading his team to an impressive 11-2 season.

Those bonuses are set to increase, potentially exceeding $3 million later in the spring.

Moreover, advancing in the College Football Playoff could bring additional bonuses close to $200,000 for a semifinal or final appearance.

Commitment to the Team and Community

Notably, Dillingham made headlines last season by donating a $200,000 bonus for the team's ninth victory to support staff, showcasing his commitment to the entire program.

His new contract is expected to provide him with additional bonus funds to distribute at his discretion without impacting his personal income.

Investment in Football Operations

ASU is investing heavily in its football program, with plans to boost the football operations budget by over 45% in 2024.

This comes alongside securing long-term contracts for key coordinators, which will average more than a million dollars annually, signaling a serious investment in maintaining top talent and continuity on the coaching staff.

Comparison with Other Coaches

While the highest-paid coach in the Big 12, Mike Gundy of Oklahoma State, makes $7.75 million, Dillingham's new deal will place him firmly in contention for one of the league’s top salaries, coupled with substantial performance incentives.

Dillingham's Dream Job

Dillingham, a Scottsdale native and ASU graduate, has long viewed this position as a dream job.

Prior to being hired, every step he took in his coaching career—from Memphis to Auburn, Florida State to Oregon—has aimed at his eventual return to ASU as head coach.

Dillingham's Vision for ASU

“The fit is so important,” Dillingham expressed recently. “My understanding of this place, the school, and the city has definitely aided in our transition and recruiting efforts. I want to bring in those who share that understanding and passion.”

Successful Season and Future Prospects

After a rocky start with a 3-9 record in 2023, Dillingham's turnaround to an 11-win season and conference championship victory has captured national attention.

Arizona State’s league title has granted them a coveted bye in the first round of the College Football Playoff, signaling their newfound prowess in college football and setting the stage for an exciting future under Dillingham’s leadership.