How long will he stay? FAU, Lane Kiffin already reportedly working on new contract
Lane Kiffin’s only been at FAU for one full season, but the two are already working on a new contract, according to the Palm Beach Post.
Kiffin has taken the Owls from a cellar dweller to 10-3 and conference champions in just one season, and it’s obvious his play-calling ability (and leadership?!) is a massive part of that.
Kiffin signed a five-year, $4.5 million contract last December, but FAU’s president is talking about keeping Kiffin for the “long term.”
“I’ve told Lane that when I met with him, I thought we could be a top-25 program and we need a coach who can do that,” John Kelly said in a TV segment that aired Saturday. “He’s on the verge of doing that. We’re obviously looking toward keeping Lane long term.”
Following a successful first-year in Boca Raton and with so many jobs open around the country, it was natural to think Kiffin would get another head coaching shot, potentially at a Power 5 program. However, as the coaching carousel is winding down — at least head coaches, it appears that Kiffin will return to FAU in 2018.
“I think (the talk of a new contract) shows a lot,” Kiffin told The Palm Beach Post. “It shows where we are as a program, what the leadership of the university feels about us and the direction that we’re headed is great.”
Of course, Kiffin signing a new contract guarantees nothing; however, it does show the school is committed to winning and Kiffin.
The two are hoping to get the deal finalized even before the Owls’ bowl game Tuesday night against Akron.