It won’t be easy luring Urban Meyer back to a college sideline, especially for a former rival.
Last week, the former Ohio State head coach went to enemy territory when FOX covered Michigan’s home loss to Texas. Before Saturday’s game, Matt Leinart asked his Big Noon Kickoff colleague how much money he’d want to coach the Wolverines.
“I offer you $10 million, are you taking the job? Leinart asked.
“Negative,” Meyer answered before declaring he gets paid that much by FOX. (He seemed to want to walk back that reveal when adding, “Maybe not.”)
Leinart increased his hypothetical offer to $25 million. At that point, Meyer relented and said he’s “taking it.”
However, Meyer then laughed and made a throat-slashing gesture that indicated he probably has no intention of ever actually coaching at Ann Arbor.
If Meyer’s asking price is $25 million, it’s safe to say a Michigan pairing won’t happen anytime soon.
Kirby Smart leads all college football head coaches with a $13 million salary this season. Michigan reportedly offered Jim Harbaugh a 10-year, $125 million extension to stay in Ann Arbor after leading the program to a national championship.
A $25 million annual salary would match Andy Reid, who’s led the Kansas City Chiefs to three Super Bowl titles in the last five seasons. Meyer may be lucky to get offered $2.50 by an NFL team after going 2-11 during a dysfunctional 2021 season with the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Besides, Michigan recently filled the job. The university promoted former offensive coordinator Sherrone Moore, who led the Wolverines to a victory over Meyer’s Buckeyes as acting head coach last November.
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