With Curt Cignetti locked up, Indiana is poised to continue its rise in college football. Head coach Curt Cignetti of the Indiana Hoosiers walks onto the field before the game against the Oregon Ducks at Autzen Stadium. (File photo) (Getty Images via AFP) Indiana University has secured its football future by signing head coach Curt Cignetti to an eight-year, $93 million contract extension, making him one of the highest-paid coaches in the FBS with an average annual salary of about $11.6 million. The announcement, made Thursday, underscores the university’s commitment to building a powerhouse program under Cignetti’s leadership. Curt Cignetti’s Remarkable Season Curt Cignetti, 64, transformed the Hoosiers in his debut season in 2024, leading them to a 10-2 record and a surprise College Football Playoff (CFP) appearance. This season, the no. 3-ranked Hoosiers undefeated at 6-0 as they prepare to take on Michigan State on Saturday. Cignetti’s 17-2 overall record, including an impressive 11-1 against Big Ten opponents, has revitalized a program that has struggled in recent years. “I couldn’t be more proud to be a Hoosier, and I plan to retire as a Hoosier,” Cignetti said in a video posted on Indiana’s social media. “The way this state has embraced us and our success in football has meant more to me than anything else.” Contract Details The new contract, which runs through the 2033 regular season, also increases Cignetti’s buyout from $10 million to $15 million, according to ESPN’s report. The move signals Indiana’s intent to fend off potential suitors and eliminate distractions as the team pursues a second straight CFP bid. From underdog to contender Before Curt Cignetti’s arrival, Indiana’s football program endured lean years, posting a 9-27 record over three seasons under former coach Tom Allen. The Hoosiers had never won 10 games in a season in their 127-year history until Cignetti’s 2024 campaign. His strategic use of the transfer portal turned Indiana into a legitimate Big Ten title contender, a feat few could have predicted. Cignetti’s awards reflect his impact. Named the 2024 Big Ten Coach of the Year and National Coach of the Year by multiple organizations, he has proven his ability to elevate programs. His previous success at James Madison, Elon and Indiana University of Pennsylvania further cemented his reputation as a program builder. Looking ahead With Curt Cignetti locked up, Indiana is poised to continue its rise in college football. The Hoosiers’ undefeated start and top-three national ranking in 2025 highlight their potential to compete at the sport’s highest level. As they chase another CFP appearance, Cignetti’s leadership and Indiana’s investment signal a new era for Hoosier football.
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