Athens, Ga. ( Associated Press) — Georgia coach Kirby Smart has agreed a contract extension through the 2031 season that cements his position as one of college football’s highest-paid coaches.
Under the deal announced Thursday, Smart will be paid $10.25 million in basic pay and supplemental compensation this season. He will receive an increase each season, leading to a total compensation of $12.25 million in 2031.
The expansion came after Smart led the Bulldogs to last season’s national championship, a first for Georgia since 1980.
“Coach Smart’s impact on the University of Georgia goes far beyond his critical acclaim as our head football coach,” Athletic Director Josh Brooks said in a statement. “He and his wife are Bulldogs through and through, and it is clear that Athens and UGA mean as much to him as he means to us.
“I am excited for the continued success of our football program under his direction. The future of Georgia Football remains bright with Coach Smart as its steadfast leader.
The new deal comes a day after Smart confirmed at the Southeastern Conference Media Days in Atlanta that he was close to an extension. He is 66-15 in six years in Georgia.
Smart has received over $3 million for this season. He was set to earn $7.1 million on his old deal, which lasted until the 2024 season.
Under Smart, Georgia has finished first in the SEC East four times and won six bowl games. Georgia lost in the 2018 national championship game and finally broke through with their win over Alabama in last season’s title game.
Smart is a former Georgia defensive back.
“This is home to us, our roots are deep here,” Smart said. “My commitment to this university and our football program is unwavering. I am grateful to President Jere Morehead and Josh Brooks for their continued support of Georgia Football.
Smart said he was “definitely proud of what we’ve been able to accomplish” but added, “I believe the best is yet to come.”
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