After much speculation and numerous rumors, James Franklin has finally made his third coaching move to Virginia Tech. The highly sought-after coach has been linked to various top programs such as LSU, Auburn, and many others, but it seems that Virginia Tech has won the race to secure his services. Despite a 3-3 record with Penn State, Franklin’s impressive overall FBS record of 128-60 and his exceptional recruiting abilities make him one of the most highly touted coaches in the sport. With Virginia Tech’s growing budget and commitment to success, it’s no surprise that they were able to lure Franklin to their program.
The big question on everyone’s mind is, how much is James Franklin going to make at Virginia Tech? Well, let’s break down the contract figures and see just how much the Hokies are investing in their new head coach.
According to reports, Franklin’s contract with Virginia Tech is worth a whopping $35.1 million over six years. This translates to an average annual salary of $5.85 million, making him one of the highest-paid coaches in college football. This is a significant increase from his previous salary at Penn State, where he was making $5.4 million per year.
But it’s not just the salary that makes this deal so lucrative for Franklin. The contract also includes various incentives and bonuses that could potentially increase his earnings even further. These incentives include bonuses for winning the ACC Championship, making it to a New Year’s Six bowl game, and winning the National Championship. With the Hokies’ commitment to success, it’s safe to say that Franklin will have plenty of opportunities to earn these bonuses.
Another significant aspect of Franklin’s contract is the buyout clause. If Franklin decides to leave Virginia Tech before the end of his contract, he will have to pay a buyout fee of $5 million. This is a clear indication of the Hokies’ commitment to keeping Franklin at the helm for the long haul. It also serves as a deterrent for other programs who may try to poach him in the future.
But why did Virginia Tech go all-in on James Franklin? The answer is simple – he is a proven winner. In his eight years as a head coach, Franklin has never had a losing season. He has led his teams to bowl games in seven out of eight seasons, including three New Year’s Six bowl appearances. His recruiting prowess is also second to none, consistently bringing in top-ranked recruiting classes at Penn State. With his track record of success, it’s no wonder that Virginia Tech was willing to invest so heavily in him.
Moreover, Franklin’s arrival at Virginia Tech has already created a buzz among the players and fans. The Hokies have been struggling in recent years, and Franklin’s hiring has injected new energy and excitement into the program. His infectious enthusiasm and passion for the game are sure to have a positive impact on the team, both on and off the field.
In conclusion, James Franklin’s move to Virginia Tech is a significant step for both the coach and the program. With a lucrative contract and a strong commitment from the university, Franklin has all the resources he needs to build a powerhouse program at Virginia Tech. The Hokies have made a bold statement by securing the services of one of the most highly sought-after coaches in the sport, and it’s safe to say that the future looks bright for Virginia Tech football.
