BREAKING: Colorado State University (CSU) has officially announced Jim Mora as the new head football coach, making him the highest-paid coach in the program’s history with a lucrative five-year contract starting at $2.4 million annually. The introduction is set for Monday at Canvas Stadium, marking a pivotal moment for the Rams following a disappointing 2-10 season.
Mora’s contract includes significant annual salary increases of $100,000, reaching $2.8 million by the end of the term in 2030. This financial commitment underscores CSU’s ambition to revitalize its football program. In comparison, Mora’s predecessor, Jay Norvell, began with a salary of $1.6 million.
In addition to the base salary, Mora will receive a $150,000 signing bonus within 100 days of his hire, alongside a retention bonus of $150,000 for maintaining good standing each February 1 after every season. His contract is designed with numerous performance-based bonuses, offering substantial rewards for team success.
Mora’s bonuses are structured to incentivize performance:
– $25,000 for winning six games
– $50,000 for seven wins
– Up to $400,000 for twelve wins
– $75,000 for reaching the Pac-12 Conference championship game
– $100,000 for winning the conference title
– Additional bonuses for bowl game participation, including $50,000 for non-College Football Playoff (CFP) bowls and $75,000 for victories.
If the Rams qualify for the CFP, Mora could earn cumulative bonuses ranging from $200,000 to $400,000 based on their progress, emphasizing the financial stakes tied to on-field success.
CSU’s financial commitment extends beyond Mora’s salary. The university is also responsible for a $1.5 million buyout Mora owes to UConn, where he previously coached. Furthermore, the assistant coach and support staff compensation pool has been significantly increased to $5 million, compared to Norvell’s $3 million.
Mora’s contract includes a buyout clause, ensuring CSU pays 75% of his remaining salary if terminated without just cause. This amounts to $5 million if fired in 2026, decreasing each year thereafter.
This urgent development reflects CSU’s commitment to turning its football fortunes around. As Mora embarks on this new chapter, his ability to drive team success is crucial for both his financial incentives and the program’s future.
Expectations are high as the Rams look to improve their record significantly. The CSU community is poised to rally behind Mora, hoping for a turnaround that could restore pride in their football program.
Stay tuned for updates as Mora begins his tenure and aims to lead the Rams back to competitiveness.
