Brian Kelly, an American college football coach, was born on October 25, 1961. He boasts a coaching career spanning over three decades, making him a significant figure in the sport. One of his notable achievements was coaching at Grand Valley State University, where he secured consecutive NCAA Division II Football Championships in 2002 and 2003.
Kelly's coaching journey includes prominent institutions such as the University of Notre Dame and his current position at Louisiana State University (LSU). His 10-year contract at LSU, loaded with incentives and bonuses, solidifies his status as one of the highest-paid coaches in college football history.
Brian Kelly Salary
Brian Kelly's average annual salary at LSU is $9.5 million. In 2022, he signed a monumental 10-year contract that runs through 2031. This contract is worth a staggering $95 million.
The Specifics Of Brian Kelly's Salary Package
Here's a comprehensive breakdown of Brian Kelly's salary package:
| Component | Amount |
| Base Salary | $400,000 |
| Longevity Bonus (Annual) | $500,000 |
| Car Allowance (Monthly) | $1,000 |
| Supplemental Compensation | Starting at $8.8 million in 2023, increasing to $9.6 million by 2031 |
| SEC Championship Bonus | $250,000 |
| National Championship Bonus | $500,000 |
| Bowl-Eligibility Bonus | $500,000 |
| End-of-Season Bonus | $500,000 |
Brian Kelly's salary is a multifaceted package that extends well beyond his base pay of $400,000. He enjoys a $500,000 longevity bonus each year, given his continued employment with LSU. Additionally, he benefits from perks like 50 hours of annual private jet travel and a monthly car allowance of $1,000. The supplemental compensation, which starts at $8.8 million in 2023 and grows to $9.6 million by 2031, underscores the true extent of his earnings.
Performance-linked bonuses, including those for SEC and national championships, provide lucrative incentives. Lastly, he receives guaranteed bonuses upon LSU's bowl eligibility and at the end of each season, further boosting his total income. However, according to his contract, his average salary comes out to be $9.5 million.
Brian Kelly Buyout Conditions
Brian Kelly's LSU contract comes with unique terms regarding buyouts. If he wins a championship with LSU but is later fired, he receives 100% of his remaining contract, not the standard 90% for termination without cause. Whether Kelly owes money to LSU upon leaving depends on LSU's athletic director, Scott Woodward. If Woodward stays, Kelly may have financial responsibilities to the school. If the athletic director changes, Kelly's obligations change, too.
Brian Kelly's salary showcases his coaching excellence and the immense value he brings to college football. His 10-year, $95 million deal, filled with incentives and bonuses, cements his status as one of the highest-paid coaches in football history.
Read More: What is LSU Coach Brian Kelly's net worth as of 2024?
FAQ's On Brian Kelly
A. Brian Kelly has served for 12 seasons at Notre Dame from 2010 to 2021.
A. Brian Kelly's coaching package at LSU is a 10-year, $95 million deal, one of the highest in college football.
A. Brian Kelly's base salary is $400,000, but his earnings can reach millions annually with bonuses and incentives.
A. Brian Kelly has led teams to NCAA championships and multiple bowl victories during his coaching career.
A. Before LSU, Brian Kelly coached at Grand Valley State, Central Michigan, Cincinnati, and Notre Dame, achieving significant success.
