LSU is making a significant move to attract Ole Miss head coach Lane Kiffin to Baton Rouge by preparing a seven-year contract that could reach up to $98 million, according to CBS Sports. This ambitious offer, if finalized, would be among the richest in college football history and includes substantial commitments to name, image, and likeness (NIL) initiatives and revenue sharing.
The proposed contract is designed to position LSU as a competitive force in the evolving landscape of college athletics. While a formal offer has yet to be extended, Kiffin is expected to announce his decision following the Egg Bowl against rival Mississippi State on November 28, 2023, as indicated by Keith Carter, Ole Miss’s athletics director.
A contract averaging $14 million per year would elevate Kiffin to the status of the highest-paid coach in college football. Currently, Kirby Smart at Georgia holds that title with an annual salary of $13.3 million. The deal comes in the wake of Brian Kelly‘s firing during his fourth year of a 10-year, $95 million contract, highlighting the pressure surrounding high-profile coaching positions.
Given Louisiana’s state laws concerning high compensation packages, LSU’s offer is expected to incorporate easily achievable incentive bonuses. While the base salary is likely to be set just above $3 million, additional funding is anticipated to come from various external sources and performance-related incentives. These bonuses could ultimately raise the total value of the offer beyond the initial $98 million estimate.
Kiffin’s current salary at Ole Miss is approximately $9 million, ranking him sixth in the Southeastern Conference. This year, he has emerged as a highly sought-after candidate, drawing interest from prestigious programs including LSU and Florida. Reports indicate that LSU currently holds a favorable position in the race to secure Kiffin’s services.
In a related development, LSU has reportedly pledged more than $25 million in investments related to NIL and revenue sharing. As the No. 6 ranked Rebels sit at 10-1, they are on the verge of potentially reaching the College Football Playoff for the first time in the program’s history. Kiffin has led the team to three consecutive 10-win seasons, a first for Ole Miss.
Recent discussions between Kiffin and Carter suggest optimism for a potential deal; however, no agreement has been reached since talks began earlier this month. Kiffin has maintained a focus on his current responsibilities, recently deflecting inquiries about his future during a teleconference.
“I’m saying the same thing for six years,” Kiffin stated during an SEC teleconference. “I’m not talking about speaking on other jobs. I’m focused on this one.” As the Rebels prepare for their crucial matchup against Mississippi State, Carter emphasized the importance of supporting the team during this pivotal time, stating that Kiffin is dedicated to ensuring the players remain focused on the upcoming game.
Kiffin’s record at Ole Miss stands at 54-19 over nearly six seasons, which includes four 10-win campaigns. His coaching prowess and the potential for a historic contract make this situation one of the most compelling narratives in college football this season.
