Lubbock, Texas, December 17, 2025
Texas Tech University has reaffirmed its commitment to its football program by signing head coach Joey McGuire to a seven-year contract extension. This deal, which will start in 2026, features a base salary beginning at $6.5 million, with potential bonuses for performance. McGuire’s leadership has seen the team achieve significant milestones, including three bowl game appearances. The extension marks a pivotal moment in Texas Tech’s strategy to enhance its position in collegiate athletics.
LUBBOCK, Texas — Texas Tech University has taken a significant step in securing the future of its football program by signing head coach Joey McGuire to a seven-year contract extension. This move, finalized on December 2, 2025, demonstrates the university’s commitment to maintaining a competitive edge in the realm of collegiate football.
The contract will commence in 2026, with McGuire’s base salary starting at $6.5 million and ascending by $100,000 each year, ultimately reaching $7.1 million by 2032. On top of his base salary, McGuire can earn up to $1.2 million in performance-based bonuses annually. Additionally, there is a retention bonus of $250,000 that he will receive if he continues with Texas Tech through May 1, 2027.
### Performance-Based Incentives
The contract’s structure provides a clear pathway for McGuire to benefit from his success on the field. For the 2025 season alone, he has triggered $200,000 in bonuses for achieving 11 regular-season wins, along with $500,000 for claiming the Big 12 Championship. Future incentives include $350,000 for winning the Big 12 Conference and $150,000 for any bowl game victory outside the College Football Playoff. Significant advancements in the College Football Playoff will also contribute to his bonuses, where he could earn $150,000 per win and $400,000 for leading the team to a national championship victory.
### Contract Termination Terms
The contract additionally outlines provisions for termination, which are crucial in any high-stakes agreement. If McGuire is dismissed for cause, Texas Tech is required to pay out his remaining base salary and any earned bonuses. In the case of a no-cause termination, he would receive 70% of his base salary and bonuses, paid in monthly installments. Notably, achieving a Big 12 Championship during his tenure would allow him to collect 80% of the liquidated damages as well.
### McGuire’s Coaching Record and Achievements
Joey McGuire’s tenure thus far has been marked by a commendable performance; he holds a record of 34-17 overall and 24-12 within the Big 12 over his four seasons. Under his leadership, the Red Raiders have made significant strides, including three consecutive bowl game appearances and an upcoming participation in the College Football Playoff, with a matchup set in the Orange Bowl on January 1, 2026.
### Broader Implications for Texas Tech’s Football Program
The decision to extend McGuire’s contract is indicative of Texas Tech’s broader strategy to solidify and enhance its position within collegiate athletics. This investment not only reflects confidence in McGuire’s ability to lead the team but also showcases the university’s intention to build a sustained and successful football program within the competitive landscape of college sports.
In tandem with McGuire’s extension, Texas Tech has also fortified its coaching staff by extending the contracts of several key personnel, including offensive coordinator Mack Leftwich and defensive coordinator Shiel Wood, among others. This strategic move ensures continuity and stability within the program, emphasizing the importance of retaining a strong support system for the head coach.
### Conclusion: A Moment of Growth and Opportunity
The contract extension of Joey McGuire embodies a pivotal moment for Texas Tech University’s football program and serves as a rallying point for fans and supporters alike. As they prepare to compete in the Orange Bowl, the Red Raiders are not just aiming for victory on the field but building a legacy that reflects resilience, commitment, and a shared vision of success.
As Dallas continues to grow and attract sports talent, local fans and businesses are encouraged to support Texas Tech and the broader collegiate sports landscape, recognizing the positive effects that such investments have on community growth and economic vitality.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the duration of Joey McGuire’s new contract with Texas Tech?
- Joey McGuire’s new contract is a seven-year extension, keeping him with Texas Tech through the 2032 season.
- What is the base salary outlined in McGuire’s contract extension?
- The contract specifies an annual base salary starting at $6.5 million in 2026, increasing by $100,000 each year, reaching $7.1 million in 2032.
- What performance incentives are included in McGuire’s contract?
- McGuire is eligible for up to $1.2 million in performance-based bonuses annually, with specific incentives for regular-season wins, conference championships, and College Football Playoff advancements.
- What are the terms for termination outlined in McGuire’s contract?
- If McGuire is dismissed for cause, the university must pay his base salary and any earned bonuses up to the termination date. For a no-cause termination, he would receive 70% of his base salary and bonuses in monthly installments. If McGuire leads the team to a Big 12 Championship during his tenure, he is entitled to 80% of the liquidated damages in monthly installments.
- What is McGuire’s coaching record at Texas Tech?
- In his four seasons at Texas Tech, McGuire has compiled a 34-17 overall record, including a 24-12 record in Big 12 play.
- What are the upcoming games for Texas Tech under McGuire’s leadership?
- Texas Tech is scheduled to compete in the Orange Bowl on January 1, 2026, marking their participation in the College Football Playoff.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Contract Duration | Seven years, through the 2032 season |
| Base Salary | Starting at $6.5 million in 2026, increasing by $100,000 annually to $7.1 million in 2032 |
| Performance Bonuses | Up to $1.2 million annually, with specific incentives for regular-season wins, conference championships, and College Football Playoff advancements |
| Retention Bonus | $250,000, payable if McGuire remains with the university on May 1, 2027 |
| Termination Terms | 70% of base salary and bonuses in monthly installments for no-cause termination; 80% if McGuire leads the team to a Big 12 Championship during his tenure |
| Coaching Record | 34-17 overall, 24-12 in Big 12 play over four seasons |
| Upcoming Games | Orange Bowl on January 1, 2026, as part of the College Football Playoff |
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