A Bargain Coach for UCLA?
In a move that has sparked interest and debate, UCLA has signed Bob Chesney as their new football coach, and the contract details are quite intriguing. Chesney's five-year deal, worth $33.75 million, might just be a steal for the struggling program.
According to the USA Today database, Chesney's annual salary of $6.75 million doesn't even crack the top 35 coaching salaries in college football. To put it into perspective, he would have ranked just behind Arkansas' Sam Pittman and ahead of Auburn's Hugh Freeze in terms of salary.
But here's where it gets controversial... Chesney's contract includes some unique clauses and bonuses that could make it a very lucrative deal.
His contract starts at $5.4 million in the first year, with modest increases each year thereafter. He also received a substantial hiring bonus of $3.7 million, with most of it paid upfront. Chesney's contract includes a buyout clause, which means if he's terminated without cause, he's entitled to a significant portion of his remaining salary.
And this is the part most people miss: Chesney has to pay a penalty if he leaves for another job. The amount decreases over time, starting at $8 million in the first year and dropping to $1 million by 2030. It's a strategy to ensure long-term commitment.
Chesney's contract also includes retention bonuses, performance incentives, and various perks. He can earn bonuses for winning games, reaching bowl games, and even for coaching awards. If UCLA makes it to the College Football Playoff, Chesney stands to earn a substantial bonus.
The contract details for Chesney's assistants are also worth noting. Offensive coordinator Colin Hitschler and defensive coordinator Dean Kennedy have multi-year deals with impressive salaries. Most other assistants have two-year contracts, with bonuses included.
So, is Bob Chesney a bargain for UCLA? The contract certainly has its perks, but it also comes with expectations. The question remains: Can Chesney deliver the results to justify this deal? What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments and let's discuss this intriguing contract!
