Texas A&M to invest over $75 million in parting ways with Jimbo Fisher

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Texas A&M University made headlines this weekend by dismissing head football coach Jimbo Fisher and paying over $75 million to buy out his contract, setting the stage for a national search for his replacement.

“Our program is stuck in neutral,” Texas A&M Athletic Director Ross Bjork informed reporters, emphasizing the need for a change in leadership following the Aggies’ decisive victory over Mississippi State.

While the decision was officially announced a day after the game, the process of evaluating Fisher’s leadership had begun earlier, leading to a “robust conversation” with the Texas A&M Board of Regents.

After delivering the news to Fisher in a “quick and cordial” exchange, Bjork reiterated his recommendation to replace the coach, emphasizing a need for change in his official statement.

The university’s $75 million buyout, to be covered by donor dollars and athletic department funds, marks a new record for football coach compensation in college athletics.

In the interim, Assistant Coach Elijah Robinson takes the helm for the remainder of the season as the university launches a national search for a permanent replacement.

University administrators defended the staggering 10-year, $75M contract in 2017, justifying it as an investment to win championships. However, Fisher’s inability to deliver prompted his early departure.

Fisher’s overall record and inconsistent performance led to the university’s decision despite an earlier contract extension, highlighting the high stakes and expectations in college football.

The Texas Tribune partners with Open Campus on higher education coverage.

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