Report: Wisconsin, Paul Chryst agree to reduced buyout of $11 million

College football programs have not been afraid to fire coaches early in the season but Wisconsin‘s move was a surprise one. Paul Chryst was let go after Saturday’s loss to Illinois after spending seven full seasons in Madison. Initially, Chryst was looking at a $19.5 million check coming his way but now, the two sides have agreed on a reduced buyout.

According to Matt Fortuna of The Athletic, Wisconsin will only pay Chryst $11 million, with the two agreeing on the number on Monday. Fortuna also reports that everything must be paid within four months’ time and by Feb. 1, 2023.

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“Wisconsin and Paul Chryst have agreed to a reduced buyout of $11 million, to be paid before Feb. 1, 2023, per a school official,” Fortuna said. “The Badgers were initially on the hook for roughly $19.5 million for terminating Chryst without cause. The UW Foundation will pay the reduced buyout.”

Chryst chose to take a smaller amount but will get the money sooner rather than later. Had the former head coach stayed on the $19.5 million number, Wisconsin would have been able to pay him out over time, assuming he did not pick up another job. Now, Chryst will get a big payday by early February.

Wisconsin AD Chris McIntosh explains decision to fire Paul Chryst

Wisconsin Director of Athletics Chris McIntosh spoke during a press conference Sunday night about his decision to fire coach Paul Chryst. The school’s official statement regarding the coaching change stated that McIntosh made the decision after speaking with Chryst about the program’s long-term future — something that McIntosh clarified during their press appearance.

“I think this isn’t — certainly not a decision that’s taken lightly,” said McIntosh. “It’s not a game-by-game decision. This is a decision that’s based upon where we’re at as a program. And I think it’s important to make a decision when I feel it’s the right time, given the circumstances of where we’re at as a program right now. It’s a tough time to make a transition, but I felt it was the right time. That’s what led me to it.”

Chryst was released after leading Wisconsin to a career record of 67-26, becoming the third-winningest coach in school history. Despite his success over the years, the Badgers began this season with a 2-3 record — leading to McIntosh pulling the trigger on replacing him as coach.