SMU has finalized a new contract extension with head football coach Rhett Lashlee that will keep him with the program through the 2032 season, securing his position as one of the highest-paid coaches in college football and preventing him from being poached by other schools. The agreement, confirmed by multiple sources on October 31, 2025, underscores SMU’s commitment to building a sustainable winner in the competitive ACC landscape.
The deal extends Lashlee’s current contract by two years, moving it from 2030 to 2032, and is expected to place him among the top 10 highest-paid coaches in the sport. While specific financial terms were not disclosed, insiders indicate the raise will be substantial, reflecting his value to the program. This move comes as SMU continues to invest heavily in athletics following its transition to the ACC, aiming to compete at the highest level. The extension was first reported by Yahoo Sports and quickly confirmed by ESPN and CBS Sports, highlighting its significance in the college football community.
Lashlee, 42, has been a transformative figure for SMU football since taking over as head coach in 2022. He led the Mustangs to the College Football Playoff in the 2024 season, marking a historic achievement in the team’s first year in the ACC, and also guided them to an ACC championship game appearance. Overall, he has compiled a 34-15 record at SMU, including an American Athletic Conference title in 2023, demonstrating consistent success and program growth. His offensive expertise, developed through roles as coordinator at Miami, Auburn, and other schools, has been pivotal in elevating SMU’s performance.
Rumors had linked Lashlee to several coaching vacancies, most notably at Arkansas, where he played quarterback in college. However, he quickly dismissed such speculation, emphasizing his satisfaction with SMU and the progress being made. “I’m happy, I’ve got a great job,” Lashlee said earlier this month. “I think when your name gets linked to jobs it means your team has done well, so it’s a compliment to what our staff and administration and players have built.” This public commitment helped quell concerns about his potential departure and reinforced stability within the program.
The new extension follows a previous contract update in November 2024 that secured Lashlee through 2030, highlighting the ongoing mutual commitment between coach and university. SMU’s athletic department has made significant financial strides to support football, including facilities upgrades and increased salaries, as part of its strategy to thrive in the Power Four conference era. This investment is seen as crucial for maintaining competitiveness against established ACC rivals and attracting top talent.
This decision aligns with a broader trend in college football where schools are proactively extending coaches to avoid offseason turmoil. Recent examples include Nebraska’s deal with Matt Rhule and Indiana’s agreement with Curt Cignetti, showing an industry-wide emphasis on stability. For SMU, retaining Lashlee ensures continuity in recruiting, player development, and strategic planning, which are critical for long-term success. It also signals to the college football world that SMU is serious about its ambitions.
Looking ahead, Lashlee can now concentrate on the current season, where SMU holds a 5-3 record and faces a crucial matchup against No. 10 Miami. The contract resolution is likely to boost team morale and strengthen SMU’s position in recruiting battles, as prospects see a stable leadership environment. With Lashlee at the helm, the Mustangs are poised to build on their recent achievements and challenge for ACC titles and playoff berths in the coming years, solidifying their status as a rising force in college football.