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Finally, after weeks of drama and rumors, today it was announced by Utah Athletics that head football coach Kyle Whittingham will receive a new contract. Coach Whitt will now be making $2.6 million in 2015, with a $100,000 raise each season through 2018 - the last year of his new deal. He was scheduled to make about $2.2 million this coming season. Whittingham stays at 6th in the Pac-12, but it puts him right behind ASU's Todd Graham ($2.7 million) for the 5th highest paid coach in the Pac-12.
It appears that Dr. Chris Hill, Utah's athletic director, and Coach Whitt were able to get everything hashed out, after some possible tough negotiations. Now the focus for Whittingham is not only recruiting, but also getting his open coordinator positions filled. It will be interesting to see what contracts the new coaches receive, and if any other assistants get new contracts.
For Utes fans, though, this is a relief to know that the figurehead of Utah football for almost 25 years, will remain on The Hill.
As always, it's a great day to be
— Kyle Whittingham (@UtahCoachWhitt) January 16, 2015a Ute . #GoUtes
A quarter century of @UtahCoachWhitt. http://t.co/59Gwn5NxWc #GoUtes #25YearsOfWhitt pic.twitter.com/4YP2YPGjFB
— Utah Football (@Utah_Football) January 16, 2015
Here is the official press release from Utah Athletics:
New Contract for Utah Football Coach Kyle Whittingham
School, Coach agree on contract terms
SALT LAKE CITY-The University of Utah and head coach Kyle Whittingham have agreed to terms on a four-year contract, director of athletics Dr. Chris Hill and Whittingham announced today. Under the revised contract, Whittingham will earn $2.6 million in 2015 with an automatic $100,000 increase each year through 2018.
"We are excited to come to terms on a contract extension for Coach Whitt and under his leadership, we're looking forward to a successful football season next fall and in the years to come," said Hill.
"We appreciate the confidence andcommitment the University of Utah has shown our program. We have a talented team returning for the 2015 season and we're excited about the future of Utah football," said Whittingham. "The number one priority right now is finishing up another outstanding recruiting class."