Missouri Gives Eli Drinkwitz Big New Deal Through 2031

Missouri is making sure Eli Drinkwitz stays put. The Tigers locked up their head coach with a major contract extension announced on Thanksgiving Day, ending all rumors that he might leave for another job. With this new deal, Drinkwitz will remain in Columbia through the 2031 season.

Eli Drinkwitz had been linked to openings at LSU, Penn State, and Auburn, but Missouri moved fast to shut down that talk. The 42-year-old coach has led the Tigers to two straight 10-win seasons and a strong 21-5 record since the start of 2023. After the extension became public, he posted a short message online, thanking the school’s leaders, boosters, and fans for their support. It’s also his third contract extension in less than two years, showing just how committed Missouri is to keeping him long-term.

What’s in the New Contract?

Missouri’s Board of Curators approved the six-year extension on November 26, and the agreement became official the next day. The deal is worth $64.5 million in guaranteed money and keeps Drinkwitz under contract through 2031. One of the biggest upgrades is the larger salary pool for his assistant coaches. Reports say Missouri’s staff will now be the fourth-highest paid group in the SEC, which is a major step forward for the program.

This new contract replaces the one he signed back in July 2025. That older deal ran through 2029 and paid him around $9 million per year. By offering an updated contract only a few months later, Missouri made it clear they weren’t taking any chances with other schools showing interest.

A Strong Message From Missouri

Athletic director Laird Veatch and the university made their move before the regular-season finale, proving they see Eli Drinkwitz as the coach who can keep the Tigers competitive in the SEC for years to come. With strong momentum, a well-paid staff, and stability at the top, Missouri is setting the stage for continued success.

For fans, the takeaway is simple: Eli Drinkwitz is staying in Columbia, and the Tigers are building for an even brighter future.

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