Eli Drinkwitz Secures New Contract, Remains at Missouri Amid Coaching Rumors

The college football coaching landscape has been active this offseason, with high-profile moves including James Franklin’s hiring at Virginia Tech and Lane Kiffin’s rumored links to LSU, Florida, and Ole Miss. Amid this activity, Missouri head coach Eli Drinkwitz has become a key story, ultimately choosing to remain with the Tigers under a new contract.

Rumors had swirled earlier in the week that Drinkwitz was close to a salary increase at Missouri. Those reports reached a conclusion on Thanksgiving morning when the school and coach finalized terms to keep him in Columbia.

According to ESPN’s Pete Thamel, Drinkwitz’s new deal increases his salary to an average of more than $10.7 million per year. The agreement also expands the program’s commitment to staff compensation and the overall salary pool, signaling Missouri’s dedication to retaining its head coach amid external interest.

Drinkwitz expressed gratitude to fans, boosters, and university leadership following the announcement, emphasizing his family’s happiness in Columbia and his commitment to the program’s long-term vision. His message underscores the stability Missouri hopes to achieve as other programs navigate coaching changes this offseason.

1. Drinkwitz’s Commitment to Missouri

In a public statement, Drinkwitz highlighted his belief in the university’s leadership and vision for the program. He thanked President Mun Choi, the Board of Curators, and athletic director Laird Veatch, along with donors and NIL partners, noting the importance of their support in his decision to stay. “My family and I are thankful to be at Mizzou,” Drinkwitz said. “The support from our administration, boosters, and fans is special. We’re committed to building Missouri into a championship program.” The contract extension demonstrates the school’s commitment to Drinkwitz as the centerpiece of its football strategy. By providing both a competitive salary and resources for staff, Missouri signals its willingness to compete with larger programs for top coaching talent. This commitment also brings a measure of stability to the Tigers during a period of significant movement in college football, reassuring fans and recruits that the program’s leadership is firmly in place.

2. Drinkwitz’s Coaching Background

Drinkwitz began his head coaching career at Appalachian State in 2019, where he compiled a 12-1 record in his lone season. His success immediately drew attention from Power Five programs, leading to his hiring at Missouri in 2020. Since arriving in Columbia, Drinkwitz has posted a 45-28 record, including back-to-back bowl victories in the Cotton Bowl and Music City Bowl. His tenure has combined competitive results with program growth, helping raise Missouri’s profile nationally. The 2025 Tigers have been solid, standing at 7-4 entering the final regular-season game. Losses came against highly ranked opponents, including Alabama, Vanderbilt, Texas A&M, and Oklahoma, reflecting the challenges of competing in the SEC. Drinkwitz’s record and recent success make him a desirable candidate for other coaching opportunities, which fueled speculation about his potential departure before the contract extension was announced.

3. Implications for Missouri and the SEC

With Drinkwitz secured, Missouri avoids a disruptive coaching search and can focus on finishing the season strongly. Stability at the top will help in recruiting and maintaining continuity across the roster and staff. The contract also positions Missouri as a more attractive landing spot for assistant coaches and transfers, as a stable head coaching presence is often a critical factor in decision-making for players and staff alike. For the SEC landscape, retaining Drinkwitz limits the coaching domino effect. Other programs reportedly linked to his name will need to consider alternative options, while Missouri strengthens its long-term strategy. Finally, the deal signals Missouri’s intent to compete consistently in a challenging conference, combining competitive salaries, staff resources, and program vision to keep the Tigers on an upward trajectory.