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2w ago

Vanderbilt Extends Coach Clark Lea on Reported Six-Year Deal

The extension underscores Vanderbilt’s commitment to its resurgence, with reports of a significant raise plus expanded support for staff and facilities.

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Nov 22, 2025; Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Vanderbilt Commodores head coach Clark Lea checks the video board against the Kentucky Wildcats during the first half at FirstBank Stadium. Steve Roberts-Imagn Images
Kirby Smart of the Georgia Bulldogs reacts against the Texas Longhorns during a game at Sanford Stadium in Athens, Georgia.
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Overview

  • Vanderbilt announced a new contract for Clark Lea, with multiple outlets reporting a six-year term; financial details were not disclosed because the university is private.
  • Lea has guided the Commodores to a 9-2 record and CFP No. 14 ranking, their best regular season since 1915, with a chance at a first-ever 10-win season at Tennessee on Saturday.
  • ESPN and CBS Sports report the agreement includes a sizable salary increase and additional assets for roster-building along with staff and facility resources.
  • The deal follows outside interest in Lea during this coaching cycle, with reports linking him to openings such as Penn State, Auburn and Florida.
  • Recruiting efforts are expected to intensify, with ESPN reporting Vanderbilt will push to flip five-star 2026 quarterback Jared Curtis from Georgia as it plans for life after QB Diego Pavia.