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Wisconsin makes decision on pay for Jim Leonhard as interim head coach

ns_headshot_2024-clearby: Nick Schultz10/04/22NickSchultz_7
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Although he’s taking over as interim head coach at Wisconsin, Jim Leonhard isn’t getting a raise. The university decided to keep him at his same pay for the rest of the season.

The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel’s Jeff Potrykus reported Wisconsin isn’t changing Leonhard’s contract even though he’s taking on additional responsibilities as interim head coach. His salary will remain what it was when he signed as defensive coordinator, Potrykus reported.

In March, Leonhard received a $500,000 raise and is making $1.5 million this year, the Wisconsin State Journal reported. He’s taking over for the rest of the season after Wisconsin moved to fire Paul Chryst on Sunday following a 2-3 start to the season.

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Wisconsin’s decision to keep Leonhard at the same pay is a contrast to another Big Ten West school looking for a new coach. Nebraska opted to give interim head coach Mickey Joseph a raise after he replaced Scott Frost. Joseph is now making an extra $33,350 per month and has potential escalators if Nebraska makes a bowl game or wins the division.

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.

“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.”