Alabama Secures Coach DeBoer With Big New Deal

The University of Alabama has signed Kalen DeBoer to a fresh seven‑year contract that boosts his yearly pay to $12. 5 million and sharpens the buyout terms if he leaves early. The agreement, approved by the university’s trustees in a virtual session, places DeBoer among the top five highest‑paid college football coaches. The original contract was pushed out to January 31, 2033. Under the new terms, a $10 million buyout applies if DeBoer departs on or before January 31, 2027. After that date the buyout drops by $2 million each year: $8 million through 2028 and $6 million through 2029, with no fee after that. Previously the buyout was $5 million before 2027, then $4 million for 2028 and $3 million thereafter. The change came as DeBoer’s name surfaced in rumors about positions at Penn State and Michigan.DeBoer expressed enthusiasm for the extension, saying Alabama feels like a special place to him and that he looks forward to keeping the program at its elite level. He noted his two‑year tenure began with a strong record of 20 wins and 8 losses, leading the team to an 11‑4 season and a playoff appearance before falling in the quarterfinals. Alabama will pay 90 percent of any remaining compensation if it terminates DeBoer without cause, a clause unchanged from the prior deal. The new contract also removes a duty‑to‑mitigate provision, meaning the university would still owe that amount even if DeBoer finds another job after a dismissal. The salary boost puts DeBoer in the same league as coaches like Kirby Smart, Curt Cignetti, Lane Kiffin and Ryan Day. He is 51 years old and has said he chose Alabama for its support, the talent of its players, and the direction set by the staff. He has declined to discuss any interest from Michigan or other schools, insisting his commitment is to Alabama.