Alabama Secures Coach DeBoer With Big New Deal

University of Alabama Extends Kalen DeBoer’s Contract to 2029 with Significant Pay Increase

The University of Alabama has signed head coach Kalen DeBoer to a fresh seven‑year contract, raising his annual salary to $12.5 million and tightening the buyout clauses for an early departure.

• Contract Length & Pay:
• Original term extended to January 31, 2033.

• Salary increased from $10 million to $12.5 million per year.

• Buyout Structure:
• $10 million if DeBoer leaves on or before January 31, 2027.
• $8 million for departures in 2028.
• $6 million for departures in 2029.

• No buyout after that.
  (Previous terms were $5 million, $4 million, and $3 million respectively.)

• Other Key Provisions:
• University pays 90 % of remaining compensation if DeBoer is terminated without cause (unchanged).
• Duty‑to‑mitigate clause removed; university still owes full amount even if DeBoer finds another job post‑dismissal.

• Context & Reactions:
• Extension approved during a virtual trustees’ meeting, placing DeBoer among the top five highest‑paid college football coaches.
• Rumors of interest from Penn State and Michigan surfaced prior to the deal.
• DeBoer expressed enthusiasm, citing Alabama’s culture and commitment to maintaining elite performance.

• Highlighted his first two‑year record: 20–8, including an 11–4 season and playoff appearance.

• Comparative Landscape:
• Places DeBoer alongside notable coaches such as Kirby Smart, Curt Cignetti, Lane Kiffin, and Ryan Day.
• At 51 years old, DeBoer emphasized his decision to stay was driven by institutional support, player talent, and staff direction.

This contract solidifies DeBoer’s leadership for the foreseeable future while aligning his compensation with the highest echelons of college football coaching.