Mike Elko contract: Details of Texas A&M coach's extension revealed

Following a historic comeback win over South Carolina, Texas A&M made Mike Elko’s contract extension official. The Aggies announced the deal, including details of his new contract.

Elko officially signed a six-year contract extension at Texas A&M. The school did not announce salary information, but On3’s Pete Nakos reported it’s expected to be north of $10 million per year. That would make Elko one of the highest-paid coaches in college football.

The extension come as Texas A&M is in the midst of a perfect 10-0 start to the season. On the whole, in his nearly two full years at the helm, Elko has an 18-5 record.

“I have deep respect for Coach Elko, and from the moment I first met him, it was clear he is the right leader for our football program,” Texas A&M athletics director Trev Alberts said in a statement. “He has not only elevated our on-field performance over the last two seasons, but he has also begun building this program for a strong and sustainable future in the modern world of college athletics.

“We’ve made a programmatic decision to enhance our program in every way possible, and Coach Elko continues to embody discipline and values at the highest standard. His vision aligns perfectly with what we believe Texas A&M should represent, and I’m thrilled to continue this journey with him as he leads Aggie Football into an incredibly bright future.”

Mike Elko’s initial contract at Texas A&M paid him $7 million per year, which ranked No. 32 in the nation, according to the On3 Coach Salaries Index. His name has come up as a potential target for the Penn State job opening as the Nittany Lions work to replace James Franklin, but he’s now set to stay in College Station as the Aggies continue their surge toward the College Football Playoff.

“I want to extend my sincere appreciation to interim President Tommy Williams, Chancellor Glenn Hegar, the Texas A&M Board of Regents, and Director of Athletics Trev Alberts for their confidence in me and our staff for the direction we’re taking this program,” Elko said. “Texas A&M has the potential to be one of the nation’s premier football brands and a consistent contender for championships.

“his commitment of resources allows us to continue elevating our program toward that goal. From day one, our mission has been to establish a standard of excellence that reflects the passion and pride of the 12th Man, and this support moves us even further along that path.”