Contract Extension for Memphis Tigers Head Coach Justin Fuente Worth $7.25 Million Over Five Years

Head football coach Justin Fuente and The University of Memphis have reached an agreement on a contact extension.

According to Pete Thamel of SI.com, the extension will span five years, through the 2019-20 football season. Fuente, who made approximately $1 million dollars in 2014, will see his base salary increased to $1.4 million, and thereafter by $25K per year.

Quick calculations bring the total salary over the contract period to $7.25 million.

Coach Fuente's buyout will remain at $500,000, and the available money pool for assistant coaches will increase by $150,000. This last detail is of particular interest, as multiple reports have indicated Defensive Coordinator Barry Odom is likely to leave Memphis to take the same job at Missouri. Should this occur, the additional funds will allow Fuente more freedom in courting his replacement.

The news is particularly welcome to Tigers fans.  Fuente, coming off an AAC conference co-championship season, has seen his name mentioned in connection with several vacant head coaching jobs so far this season.

"Our football program has enjoyed unprecedented success under Coach Fuente’s leadership and we are excited to finalize this process and move forward," said Director of Athletics Tom Bowen in a Thursday press release. "The future of Tiger football is very bright and we look forward to the opportunity to build upon our success in the days and years ahead."

Keep your eye on Underdog Dynasty for more details about this developing story as they become available.

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Updated: 12/16/2014 @ 3:56 PM CST.