James Franklin breaks silence after inking new two-year contract with….

James Franklin, the head coach of the Penn State Nittany Lions, has been a pivotal figure in college football, leading the team to multiple bowl games and maintaining a strong presence in the Big Ten Conference. In November 2021, he secured a significant 10-year, $85 million contract extension, underscoring Penn State’s commitment to his leadership.

 

Contract Details and Amendments

Under the terms of his contract, Franklin’s base salary is approximately $8.5 million per year, placing him among the highest-paid coaches in the Big Ten. The agreement includes various performance incentives, such as bonuses for winning a Big Ten championship, reaching the College Football Playoff (CFP), and securing a national championship.

 

With the expansion of the CFP from four to twelve teams, Penn State amended Franklin’s contract to incorporate new bonuses reflecting the updated playoff structure. While specific figures have not been publicly disclosed, the adjustments ensure that Franklin is compensated for advancing through the expanded playoff rounds.

 

Coaching Achievements and Program Impact

Since Franklin’s tenure began in 2014, Penn State has achieved a 67-32 record, with a notable 43-12 performance at Beaver Stadium. The team secured the 2016 Big Ten Championship and participated in several prestigious bowl games, including the 2017 Rose Bowl, 2017 Fiesta Bowl, and 2019 Cotton Bowl. Under his leadership, the Nittany Lions have maintained a winning percentage of .726 since 2016, ranking ninth among Power Five programs.

 

Franklin’s commitment to academic excellence is evident, with his student-athletes earning four CoSIDA Academic All-American honors and two National Football Foundation Scholar-Athlete accolades. The program achieved its first 1,000 single-year Academic Progress Rate (APR) in 2018-19, reflecting a strong balance between athletic and academic success.

 

Future Outlook

As of February 2025, Franklin continues to lead Penn State with a focus on both athletic and academic excellence. The recent amendments to his contract, aligning with the expanded CFP, demonstrate a proactive approach to the evolving landscape of college football. While specific details of his contract remain confidential, the adjustments are designed to reward the program’s success in the new playoff format.

 

Franklin’s leadership has been instrumental in elevating Penn State’s football program, and the recent contract amendments reflect a mutual commitment to sustained success. The Nittany Lions’ continued competitiveness in the Big Ten and their strategic positioning in the expanded CFP underscore the effectiveness of Franklin’s coaching and the program’s overall trajectory.