Billy Napier contract buyout 2024: How much does Florida owe its head coach? Closer look at latest firing rumors
Billy Napier suffered his 16th loss as the head coach of the Florida Gators on Saturday. The Gators witnessed a crushing 33-20 defeat at their home against the Texas A&M Aggies, which has put them on a 1-2 record.
This defeat has once again raised questions about the coaching methods used by head coach Billy Napier, who is already facing rumors of getting fired. However, if this happens during or right after the 2024 season, it will come at a hefty price.
How much is Billy Napier's contract buyout in 2024?
If the Gators decide to fire their head coach Billy Napier early without a cause, his buyout for the 2024 season would be a massive $28.3 million.
Napier signed a seven-year, $51.8 million deal with the Gators in 2021, which secures him through the 2028 season.
As of now, his average salary stands at $7.4 million per year. Although he is among the highest-paid college football coaches, his current 12-16 losing record with Florida puts him under the fire.
Napier has never had a winning season with the Gators. In 2022, he recorded a 6-7 record and a 5-7 the following season. Moreover, in the current campaign, he has already suffered two major losses in three games.
In Week 1, Florida had a disappointing 17-41 defeat against Miami, but they made a comeback in the next game against Samford with a 45-7 win. While it seemed like they were back on track, the Aggies have given them another setback.
Florida Gators stumble in Texas A&M face-off
Texas A&M was on the road to Gainesville and managed to win the game effortlessly (33-22). They were in command from the beginning, scoring 20 points in the first two quarters.
The Gators, trailing by 20 at halftime, scored their first touchdown on the opening drive of the third quarter.
However, they couldn't make a strong comeback. The Gators used both of their quarterbacks, starting with Graham Mertz, who completed 12 of 15 passes for 195 yards, with 1 touchdown and 1 interception.
Backup QB DJ Lagway also saw some action, but his 6 of 13 passes for 54 yards, 1 touchdown, and 2 interceptions did not impress.
With nine more games remaining, it remains to be seen how they will manage to get back on track, as next month they will face five teams ranked in the AP Top 25 (Week 3).