ESPN REPORT: Georgia Bulldogs Head Coach Kirby Smart Shocks College Football World, Turns Down Stunning $7.5 Million Offer from Michigan Wolverines and Notre Dame — Vows Loyalty to Georgia Bulldogs: “I Have No Plans Beyond Being the Georgia Bulldogs Head Coach”……..
In a move that has reverberated throughout the college football world, Kirby Smart, head coach of the Georgia Bulldogs, has turned down a staggering $7.5 million offer from both the Michigan Wolverines and Notre Dame Fighting Irish. Smart, who has been at the helm of Georgia since 2016, reaffirmed his commitment to the Bulldogs, stating, “I have no plans beyond being the Georgia Bulldogs head coach.”
This decision comes on the heels of Smart’s recent contract extension with Georgia, making him the highest-paid coach in college football. The 10-year, $130 million deal, approved in May 2024, ensures Smart’s position at Georgia through the 2033 season. Under the terms of the contract, Smart is guaranteed $13 million annually, with the potential to earn up to $1.55 million in bonuses.
Smart’s tenure at Georgia has been marked by significant achievements, including back-to-back national championships in 2021 and 2022. His leadership has transformed the Bulldogs into a powerhouse in college football, consistently competing at the highest level. The program’s success under Smart has also been reflected in impressive recruiting classes, often ranking among the top in the nation.
The offers from Michigan and Notre Dame, both prestigious programs in their own right, were seen as attempts to lure Smart away from Georgia. However, Smart’s decision to remain with the Bulldogs underscores his loyalty and belief in the program’s future. His commitment is expected to have a positive impact on the team’s morale and recruiting efforts, as stability at the coaching position is often a key factor for prospective players.
In a broader context, Smart’s decision highlights the evolving landscape of college football, where coaching salaries continue to rise, and programs vie for top talent both on and off the field. While financial incentives are significant, Smart’s choice emphasizes the importance of personal values and long-term vision in shaping the future of college athletics.
As the 2025 season approaches, Georgia fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Smart’s continued leadership influences the Bulldogs’ performance. With a stable coaching staff and a clear vision for the future, Georgia remains a formidable contender in the college football landscape.
