A closer look at Lane Kiffin’s $91 million contract with LSU following his departure from Ole Miss

Lane Kiffin’s New Contract with LSU

Lane Kiffin, the former coach of Ole Miss, might be feeling a little less hated in his new role with LSU, especially given his new seven-year contract worth $91 million. This deal positions him as the second-highest paid coach in college football, just behind Georgia’s Kirby Smart based on projected data for 2025.

With this contract, Kiffin’s salary with the Rebels also jumps up by $4 million. And yes, the contract includes performance bonuses, which, honestly, isn’t surprising.

There’s a particularly interesting clause: if Kiffin leads LSU to a national title, he could become the highest-paid coach in the sport. Plus, there are significant bonuses tied to LSU’s possible successes—$4 million if the team wins both the SEC and national titles in one season, $1 million for simply winning the SEC, and $3 million for being ranked the top team in the country.

In case of a buyout, Kiffin is set to receive 80% of the remaining contract each month until 2032. However, if he gets fired for cause, LSU wouldn’t owe him anything.

It’s worth noting that LSU recently had some trouble with former coach Brian Kelly’s contract. Following a dispute, the Tigers agreed to fire him without cause, resulting in a $54 million payout based on his contract terms.

As LSU tries to make this deal work, they’re reportedly covering a $3 million buyout as Kiffin departs from Ole Miss. Additionally, he stands to earn $150,000 if the Rebels make a first-round playoff appearance, which could go up to $1 million if they secure a national title.

Interestingly enough, this whole situation unfolded soon after Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry criticized Kelly for the “terrible” contract he signed. In an October statement, Landry expressed concern about the financial impact of a bad coaching contract, especially during a losing season.

Kiffin seems to be settling in well. Just the other day, he shared a motivational message on social media that encouraged followers to breathe and embrace the week ahead. He included a post about LSU’s past national title trophy and Heisman Trophy winner Jaden Daniels.