Arkansas Football Unveils Coach Silverfield’s Contract Details

University of Arkansas has officially announced the contract details for its new football coach, Ryan Silverfield. His five-year agreement comes with a starting annual salary of $6.5 million, which will increase by $100,000 each year, ultimately reaching $6.9 million. The total financial commitment extends to $33.5 million, pending approval by the UA board of trustees.

Contract Highlights

Ryan Silverfield’s contract includes:

• Initial annual salary: $6.5 million
• Salary increases: $100,000 each year
• Five-year total compensation: $33.5 million
• Annual salary for full term: $350,000
• Additional compensation: Starts at $6.15 million

Buyout Clauses

Significant buyout terms are outlined in the agreement:

• $10 million until December 31, 2026
• $7.5 million until December 31, 2027
• $5 million until December 31, 2028
• $2.5 million until December 31, 2029
• $1.25 million until the end of the contract on December 31, 2030

For the UA, terminating Silverfield’s contract without cause will incur a buyout of 70% of the remaining annual compensation.

Incentives for Success

The contract is designed to reward achievement through various performance incentives, including:

• $1 million for winning the College Football Playoff championship
• $750,000 for reaching the championship game
• $500,000 for semifinal appearances
• $250,000 for quarterfinal appearances
• $150,000 for either CFP game participation or playing in a non-CFP Tier 1 bowl
• $250,000 for winning the SEC Championship Game
• $100,000 for appearing in the SEC Championship Game
• $50,000 as NCAA coach of the year recognition
• $25,000 for being named SEC coach of the year

Academic Performance Incentives

Additionally, there are clauses that reward academic achievements:

• $25,000 for maintaining a 90% graduation rate
• $12,500 for an 80% graduation rate

Hunter Yurachek, the UA Athletic Director, highlighted this significant financial investment in the football program during Silverfield’s official hiring announcement. These measures reflect a commitment to competing at a higher level in the SEC.