CONGRATULATIONS: Texas Tech head coach Joey McGuire shake the NFL World with a new contract of $99.4M…..
CONGRATULATIONS: Texas Tech Head Coach Joey McGuire Shakes the NFL World with Groundbreaking $99.4M Contract — A College Coach’s Leap into the Pros
LUBBOCK, TEXAS — In a stunning move that has reverberated across the college and professional football landscapes, Texas Tech head coach Joey McGuire has signed a blockbuster $99.4 million contract to join the NFL ranks — marking one of the largest and most shocking coaching deals in recent football history.
While Texas Tech fans are both proud and stunned, the broader sports world is marveling at what this means not only for McGuire, but for the shifting dynamic between college football and the pros. Multiple NFL franchises reportedly pursued McGuire this offseason, but sources confirm that the deal was finalized this week with an undisclosed NFL organization, with a formal announcement set to take place Friday.
The unprecedented contract — spread over seven years with additional incentives and equity options — firmly plants Joey McGuire among the most elite earners in coaching today.
From Friday Night Lights to NFL Stardom
Joey McGuire’s journey is the stuff of football legend. Starting as a beloved high school coach at Cedar Hill (TX), where he won three state championships, McGuire transitioned to the college game at Baylor before taking over at Texas Tech in 2021. From the moment he arrived in Lubbock, he brought passion, discipline, and a deep-rooted connection to Texas football culture.
In just a few seasons, McGuire turned a struggling Red Raiders program into a respected Big 12 contender, earning back-to-back bowl wins, Top 25 rankings, and recognition as one of the most forward-thinking minds in the sport.
But few imagined his next move would come so soon — and on such a massive stage.
A Groundbreaking Deal
The $99.4 million agreement reportedly includes:
- $14 million annual base salary
- Multi-million-dollar performance incentives tied to playoff appearances and division titles
- Franchise equity options — a growing trend in elite coaching contracts
- Full control over personnel decisions
- A player development initiative that allows McGuire to build bridges between college programs and NFL scouting pipelines
Sources close to the deal said the negotiations were swift and smooth. “Joey’s authenticity, leadership style, and success at every level made this a no-brainer,” said one executive. “He’s not just a great coach — he’s a culture creator.”
McGuire Responds: “It’s About Impact, Not Just Opportunity”
In a statement released Wednesday morning, McGuire thanked Texas Tech, the Lubbock community, and Red Raider Nation.
“This has been one of the greatest chapters of my life. Texas Tech is family, and it always will be. But I believe in growing, in challenging myself, and in building something even bigger. This isn’t about the spotlight. It’s about the impact.”
He added, “The NFL is the next mountain, and I’m ready to climb it.”
Shockwaves in Lubbock
The reaction in Lubbock has been a mix of pride, sadness, and admiration. Students and fans flooded the Jones AT&T Stadium lawn Wednesday morning, holding handmade signs reading “THANK YOU, COACH” and “MOUNTAINS MOVED.”
Athletic Director Kirby Hocutt spoke emotionally at a press conference:
“Coach McGuire brought fire back to this program. He gave us belief. While it hurts to see him go, we’re incredibly proud. He’s earned every ounce of this moment.”
Players, too, responded with heartfelt tributes. Quarterback Ty Bowman tweeted:
“Coach McGuire changed my life. He taught me how to win — not just games, but in character. I’ll follow him anywhere.”
What This Means for Texas Tech and College Football
Texas Tech now begins the search for its next head coach, and insiders say the list will be both ambitious and aggressive. With the Red Raiders’ rising profile, new facilities, and strong recruiting base, the program remains highly attractive.
However, McGuire’s departure marks more than just a coaching change. It reflects a growing pipeline from college football to the NFL — not just for players, but for coaches who bring dynamic leadership, recruiting acumen, and innovative systems to pro teams.
Sports business analysts are already calling the deal a “game-changer,” suggesting more NFL teams will begin targeting successful college coaches who can replicate McGuire’s culture-focused model.
McGuire’s Legacy at Texas Tech
Joey McGuire’s legacy in Lubbock is undeniable. In just a few short years, he:
- Revitalized a proud program
- Elevated recruiting to record levels
- Built a player-first, community-driven culture
- Secured back-to-back Top 25 finishes
- Left the program better than he found it
His impact, though, wasn’t limited to wins and trophies. From organizing community cleanups to hosting youth camps to launching the “Wreck ‘Em Leadership Series” for local high schoolers, McGuire became a beloved figure in West Texas.
As junior linebacker CJ Allen said,
“Coach McGuire made us better men. Football was just the beginning.”
What’s Next
The NFL team that lands McGuire is expected to make a formal announcement on Friday afternoon, unveiling the contract, logo, and vision for the franchise’s new chapter.
Back in Lubbock, the focus shifts to continuity and momentum. While the Red Raiders lose a beloved figure, they retain the foundation he built — one rooted in toughness, unity, and belief.
Texas Tech fans can hold their heads high, knowing they helped shape the career of one of football’s most exciting leaders.
Congratulations, Coach McGuire. The NFL is about to feel that West Texas fire.
