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Georgia's Kirby Smart Becomes Highest-Paid College Football Coach

Georgia head coach Kirby Smart looks on during the first of an NCAA college spring football game Saturday, April 13, 2024, in Athens, Ga. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)

Georgia's head football coach, Kirby Smart, has agreed to a contract extension that solidifies his position as the highest-paid coach in college football. The new deal will see Smart earn an annual salary of $13 million, making him the top earner in the sport. The contract extension ties Smart to the Bulldogs through 2033 and includes significant bonuses based on the new 12-team playoff structure.

Smart's salary increase of $1.75 million annually is a testament to his success with the program. Under his leadership, Georgia has achieved remarkable success, including back-to-back national titles in the 2021 and 2022 seasons. Smart, a former Georgia player, has compiled an impressive record of 94-16 since taking over as head coach in 2016.

In addition to Smart's extension, Georgia's athletic director, Josh Brooks, also received a one-year extension through 2030. Brooks will see a salary increase of $100,000 per year, bringing his total compensation to $1.275 million over the contract period. He is also eligible for up to $200,000 in bonuses based on the overall performance of the athletic program.

The university's commitment to the football program and athletic department is evident in these extensions. President Jere W. Morehead praised Smart for setting a standard of excellence in college football and expressed excitement for the future of the program under his leadership. Morehead also commended Brooks for his contributions to Georgia athletics and his role in positioning the department for success in a rapidly changing sports landscape.

With a strong roster led by quarterback Carson Beck, Georgia is poised to remain a top contender for the national championship in 2024. Smart and Brooks, both loyal graduates of the university, expressed their pride in representing Georgia and their commitment to continued success in the years ahead.

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