Curt Cignetti gets pay raise to $13.2 million after national title, per report
CBS Sports
by
Robby Kalland
February 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Curt Cignetti has received a substantial pay raise, bringing his annual salary to $13.2 million after leading the Indiana Hoosiers to their first national championship in program history. This increase, which surpasses his previous earnings of $11.6 million, positions him as one of the highest-paid coaches in college football, tied with Georgia's Kirby Smart. The raise was triggered by a market review clause in his contract following the team's historic run to the College Football Playoff semifinals.
The deal, effective through 2033, reflects Indiana's commitment to retaining Cignetti, who has transformed the program into a national contender. The university acted swiftly after the Penn State coaching position became available, ensuring Cignetti remained in Bloomington by meeting the contract stipulations that required a salary adjustment. This move underscores the importance of maintaining stability and investment in a successful program.
Cignetti's new contract also includes a buyout structure that decreases over time if he chooses to leave. Additionally, any changes in leadership roles within the university could further reduce the buyout amount by half. These terms highlight Indiana's strategic approach to keeping Cignetti aligned with the program's long-term success.
For sports enthusiasts and college football fans, this development is significant as it signals Indiana's rise to prominence under Cignetti's leadership. His ability to secure elite talent and deliver championship-level performance has solidified his status as a top-tier coach. The Hoosiers' swift action to reward him financially ensures their continued竞争力 in the competitive landscape of college football.
Verticals
sports
Originally published on CBS Sports on 2/20/2026