Luke Fickell is the current head coach of the Ohio State Buckeyes, an American football team. When he was hired in 2021, Fickell’s annual salary was set at $6 million. This made him one of the lowest-paid coaches in the Big Ten Conference.
However, Fickell’s contract includes various incentives, such as $150,000 for each game he wins and a $500,000 bonus if the Buckeyes win a conference championship. He also receives an annual performance bonus.
Fickell’s salary is significantly lower than that of his predecessor at Buckeyes, Urban Meyer. Meyer was making $8.5 million per year when he left. Fickell’s salary is also comparable to that of other top coaches in the Power Five conferences.
For example, Nick Saban of Alabama makes $11.2 million per year, while Dabo Swinney of Clemson makes $9.3 million per year.
Fickell’s relatively low salary can be attributed to the Buckeyes’ financial situation. The athletic department has faced financial difficulties in recent years and is working to pay off debt. The department is also trying to raise money to build a new football facility.
Fickell appears to be satisfied with his salary and is excited to be the head coach of the Buckeyes. “I’m honored to be at Ohio State and to be the head coach of this program,” he said. “I believe we have the potential to do great things here, and I can’t wait to get to work.”
It remains to be seen if Fickell can lead the Buckeyes to success. However, he has a proven track record as a coach and has the potential to turn the program into a perennial contender.
Additional Information
- Fickell’s contract runs through 2026.
- The contract also includes a $7.5 million buyout if Fickell leaves the Buckeyes.
- Fickell led the Buckeyes to the 2022 Rose Bowl and the 2023 CFP Championship.
