No raises, contract extensions for Clemson football coaches in 2026. Here’s why

Clemson University has decided not to offer contract extensions or raises to its football coaching staff following a disappointing 7-6 season. This marks a departure from previous years when the university routinely updated contracts for head coach Dabo Swinney's assistants after successful seasons. The only notable contract approval was for Dennis Love, the new head strength and conditioning coach, replacing Joey Batson.

The decision affects eight assistant coaches and several support staff members, who did not receive extensions or raises. This includes defensive coordinator Tom Allen and other high-profile coaches like Nick Eason and Matt Luke, all of whom are under contract until at least 2027. The move reflects a broader trend of financial scrutiny in college athletics during the revenue-sharing era, where schools are re-evaluating expenses like staff salaries and facilities.

Despite the lack of contract changes, Clemson's athletic director Graham Neff has publicly supported Swinney, emphasizing his long-term role as head coach. The focus will now be on the team's performance