When talking about coaches in college football, Ryan Beard is a name that cannot be ignored. Beard started his Missouri State University chapters as the Bears’ defensive coordinator under head coach Bobby Petrino. After three seasons as the defensive coordinator, on Dec. 19, 2022, Beard was appointed head coach of the football team.
The move itself was historic as it made Beard the youngest coach in the program’s history. So, how has this move played out for Missouri State? Well, Beard’s first season as head coach in 2023 ended with the team finishing with a 4-7 record. But they have a standout 35-16 win over No. 18-ranked Northern Iowa.
Under Beard, Missouri State’s passing offense ranks No. 5 in the nation, and seven players earned All-MVFC honors. He has also been key to developing the defense line at Missouri State. So what exactly does the ever-so-loyal head coach’s contract with Missouri State entail?
Ryan Beard Salary & Contract in 2025
Beard’s current contract with Missouri State University expires on Jan. 14, 2029. His salary increases significantly each year. In 2024, his base salary was $315,000. However, in 2025, it increased to $450,000. His salary will continue to increase year on year, hitting $590,000 by 2029.
Additionally, Beard is eligible for performance-based incentives. These include bonuses for team GPA achievements, conference standings, victories, postseason appearances, and national rankings. His contract includes bonuses for accolades such as MVFC Coach of the Year ($5,000) and National Coach of the Year ($50,000).
What makes his contract interesting is Beard’s contract has a unique automatic extension clause. When the Bears win seven or more games in a season, an extra year is added to his deal.
“My family and I want to thank Clif (Smart), Kyle (Moats), the Board of Governors, and incoming President (Richard B.) Williams for their support and belief in the direction of our football program,” Beard said in a statement after the contract extension.
Beard’s buyout structure is also an interesting one. It starts out at $1.6 million in 2024 and gradually decreases to $590,000 by the final year of his contract. This makes Beard one of the highest-paid coaches that Missouri State has had.
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Despite being the highest-paid head coach at Missouri State, he remains one of the lowest-paid in Conference USA. His total contract value through 2028 is projected at $2.3 million. While specific sponsorship deals and outside earnings are not publicly available, his earnings place him below many of his Conference USA peers.
For example, Jacksonville State’s Rich Rodriguez earns over $1 million annually, while Louisiana Tech’s Sonny Cumbie and Middle Tennessee’s Derek Mason each make approximately $1 million. However, if Beard manages to keep the upward trajectory going, future renegotiations could always happen.
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