Kalen DeBoer took over as Alabama’s head football coach in 2024. He wasn’t just stepping into any job—he was inheriting a dynasty built by Nick Saban, one of the greatest coaches in college football history. The pressure? Immense. The expectations? Sky-high. But with the challenge came an incredible financial package, making DeBoer one of the highest-paid coaches in the nation. So, how much is he really making, and what’s his net worth?
Kalen DeBoer’s Salary & Contract in 2025
Kalen DeBoer didn’t just sign a contract—he secured the bag. Alabama lured him away from Washington with a monster eight-year, $87 million contract that runs through December 31, 2031. Here’s how his annual salary stacks up:
No. 6⃣ – Kalen DeBoer@GregMcElroy explains why the @AlabamaFTBL head coach is TOP SIX in CFB entering the 2025 season 🐘#RollTide pic.twitter.com/ABaaqP37fB
— Always College Football (@AlwaysCFB) March 31, 2025
- 2024: $10,000,000
- 2025: $10,250,000 (Cut To) 2031: $11,750,000
By 2025, DeBoer is set to earn $10.25 million annually, a massive step up from his $4.2 million salary at Washington. He now sits among the highest-paid college football coaches, proving Alabama is all-in on their new leader.
Because just making $10 million a year wasn’t enough, Alabama loaded DeBoer’s contract with performance-based bonuses. Here’s what he can earn on top of his salary:
- SEC Championship Game Appearance: $75,000
- SEC Championship Win: $125,000
- College Football Playoff (CFP) Appearance: $150,000
- CFP Quarterfinals Appearance: $250,000
- CFP Semifinals Appearance: $400,000
- CFP Championship Game Appearance: $600,000
- National Championship Win: $875,000
- Graduation Rate Bonus (Top 4 in SEC): $100,000
If DeBoer delivers an Alabama national title in his first season, he’ll pocket nearly $11 million. Not bad for a guy who was coaching NAIA football just 15 years ago.
Buyout Clause: What Happens If He Leaves?
Alabama fans are all too familiar with coaches being poached, so DeBoer’s contract includes a buyout clause:
- 2024: $5 million
- 2025: $4 million
- 2026: $3 million
- 2027 and beyond: No buyout required
This means that if another program wants DeBoer in 2025, it will have to fork over $4 million to Alabama. But after 2027, he will be free to leave without penalty.
Kalen DeBoer’s Net Worth in 2025
So, what’s DeBoer’s net worth looking like? As of 2025, it’s estimated to be around $12 million, which will only grow as he cashes in on his Alabama contract. While no public sponsorship deals have been disclosed, top-tier coaches often land partnerships with major brands, further boosting their earnings.
DeBoer’s wealth isn’t just from coaching salaries. Over his career, he’s steadily climbed the ranks, making smart financial moves along the way. And if he keeps winning? Expect that net worth to skyrocket.
Alabama didn’t just hire Kalen DeBoer; they invested in the future of Crimson Tide football. At $10.25 million per year, he’s among the highest-paid coaches in the country, but with that salary comes massive expectations. Can he keep Alabama at the pinnacle of college football? That’s the $87 million question.
KEEP READING: Kalen DeBoer’s Plan for Alabama’s Spring Game
As he enters his second year in 2025, all eyes are on Tuscaloosa. Will DeBoer live up to the legendary standard set by Saban, or will he crumble under the pressure?
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