Nick Saban’s latest contract extension, approved on Aug. 23 by the University of Alabama System board of trustees compensation committee, will extend the prior agreement by one season, keeping the coach with the Crimson Tide football program through at least Feb. 28, 2030.

The base salary and talent fee of $9.9 million for the current contract year will increase annually, the university said in a statement. He will also receive a contract completion benefit of $800,000 payable at the end of the 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025 contract years. According to AL.com, he will make $10.7 million in the first year of the deal and $12.7 million in the final year.

The latest contract replaces an eight-year deal he signed a year ago, AL.com said. The new contract is worth a total of $93.6 million, compared with a value of $84.8 million for the previous one. It makes Saban the highest paid college coach, retaking that distinction from Georgia coach Kirby Smart whose new contract this summer following his team’s National Championship win over the Tide temporarily moved him to the top position.

“Our family is very happy to agree to a contract extension with the University of Alabama,” Saban said. “Terry and I are very appreciative of the unmatched commitment the university has shown to this football program and our family over the last 15-plus years. This is our home, and we look forward to finishing our career at Alabama. I’ve said this before, but the most fulfilling part of our job is seeing the players that represent our program grow and develop, not only in football, but more importantly in what they have been able to accomplish in their lives because of their involvement in our program. We want to thank the board of trustees, Chancellor (Finis) St. John, President Bell, Director of Athletics Greg Byrne, our athletics administration, the football staff and the whole university community for their support.”

Alabama coach Nick Saban’s new contract is worth $93.6 million.
(Kent Gidley)

During his time with the Alabama football program, Saban has led the team to six national championships since 2009, along with eight Southeastern Conference championships and a record of 183-25.

“We are incredibly fortunate to have the best football coach in the nation and one of the greatest coaches of all time, regardless of sport, here at Alabama in coach Saban,” said Alabama Director of Athletics Greg Byrne. “Not only have his teams been successful on the field, but they have also achieved greatly in the classroom and community. Beyond that, the impact he and Ms. Terry have had on the university, Tuscaloosa and the state of Alabama cannot be overlooked. They are special people, and we are very thankful to have them around for many years to come. We are so proud of this program and the championship culture coach Saban has instilled throughout.”

The coach will be 78 when the deal ends.

“Coach Saban’s commitment to the comprehensive development of each student-athlete is remarkable and his teams set the standard for excellence, both on the field and in the classroom,” said UA President Stuart R. Bell. “Nick and Terry Saban are pillars of our community and we are grateful their impact and legacy at the Capstone will only continue to grow.”