How much is Kirk Ferentz contract buyout? Iowa HC's salary and future in CFB arena explored
Kirk Ferentz, 68, is undoubtedly one of the longest-serving coaches in college football. Ferentz has been the coach of the Iowa Hawkeyes for over two decades now since starting in 1999.
Over the years, Ferentz's journey with the Hawyekes has been a roller coaster one with ups and downs. Last year, he agreed another contract extension, which means he will be a part of Iowa for a few more years. So, what's the amount the program needs to pay for his contract buyout?
How much is Kirk Ferentz's buyout?
Being a coach of a college football team for over two decades is no joke.
It ensures Feretnz a sense of security in his position. However, if the program decides to split with the 68-year-old, it will be a massive financial burden on them.
According to his contract buyout clause, the university will have to pay Kirk Ferentz 100% of whatever base and supplemental salary is left in his contract duration.
Considering the fact that he recently signed a four-year extension through 2029 that pays him $7 million annually, it totals up to a resounding $42 million.
Furthermore, Ferentz's $7 million annual salary is broken down into three parts. He earns a $500,000 million base salary along with $5.5 million in supplemental compensations.
Moreover, he also has a $1 million longevity bonus, and there are also additional bonuses for various personal achievements during the season.
Kirk Ferentz's Iowa career
Ferentz was a part of the coaching staff of the Cleveland Browns and the Baltimore Ravens from 1993 to 1998.
He was then hired to replace Hayden Fry as the 28th coach of the Iowa Hawkeyes starting from the 1999 season. However, the first two seasons proved to be a disappointing start to Ferentz's time with the Hawkeyes.
After 1-10 and 3-9 seasons in 1999 and 2000 respectively, the team gradually started to improve their performance. The 2001 campaign saw them finish with a 7-5 overall record and also emerge victorious in the Alamo Bowl against Texas Tech.
Kirk Ferentz has led the Iowa Hawkeyes to two Big Ten championships (2002 and 2004). However, he has yet to add a national championship to his glorious coaching career with the team.
Thus season, the Hawkeyes have won six of the eight games they've played. It will be interesting to see if Kirk Ferentz can end the campaign on a winning note.