Indiana and Curt Cignetti Sign Eight-Year Contract Extension
Indiana University head football coach Curt Cignetti has secured an eight-year contract extension, ensuring his position until November 30, 2033. The new deal features an average annual compensation of approximately $11.6 million.
Commitment to Excellence
Indiana University President Pamela Whitten praised Cignetti’s contributions, stating that he exemplifies the university’s commitment to excellence. “Cig is a winner,” she said, highlighting the impressive performance of the football program under his guidance.
Cignetti’s Achievements
Cignetti is in his second season with the Hoosiers. In his inaugural year, he led the team to an 11-2 record and the program’s first College Football Playoff appearance. This season, the Hoosiers remain undefeated with a 6-0 record and hold the No. 3 spot in the national rankings.
Indiana’s recent victory over the Oregon Ducks further solidifies the team’s remarkable turnaround, considering they finished the previous season with a 3-9 record.
Salary Trends and Program Pressure
Before the extension, Cignetti’s salary was $8.3 million, without bonuses, ranking 18th in college football and seventh in the Big Ten. With the new deal, Cignetti will earn the third-highest salary in the nation, behind Ohio State’s Ryan Day and Georgia’s Kirby Smart.
The contract extension partly results from external pressures. High-profile coaching positions at schools like Penn State and Arkansas have recently become available. Former football players and commentators, including FOX Sports’ Mark Ingram and Urban Meyer, have suggested that Cignetti offers significant potential for success at Indiana without needing to look elsewhere for national titles.
Upcoming Challenges
As the Hoosiers aim to maintain their strong momentum, they will face Michigan State this Saturday at 3:30 p.m. ET, with the game scheduled to air live on Peacock. Cignetti’s leadership will be critical as Indiana seeks to continue its impressive performance this season.
