Most college students change majors, but Joey McGuire changed his entire life plan. The Texas Tech coach was studying to become a nurse when he discovered his passion for coaching instead. This decision has now helped him build a multimillion-dollar net worth.
As the No. 17 Red Raiders prepare to face the No. 16 Utah Utes Saturday in what could be a preview of the Big 12 Championship Game, let’s take a look at how much McGuire has earned for leading Texas Tech.
What is Joey McGuire’s Net Worth and Salary at Texas Tech?
McGuire’s estimated net worth is not publicly disclosed, but it is reported to be $26.6 million. This wealth comes from over two decades of coaching success, from his 2003-2016 tenure at Cedar Hill High School through his 2017-2021 stint at Baylor, and his current role at Texas Tech since 2022.
The 54-year-old coach is currently under a six-year, $26.6 million contract signed with Texas Tech in December 2022. His most recent documented salary was $4,204,960 for 2024, with additional compensation of $43,000, bringing his total annual earnings to $4,247,960.
McGuire’s contract includes built-in $100,000 annual increases. The deal started at $4,104,960 in 2023, reached $4,204,960 in 2024, and stands at $4,304,960 in 2025, eventually reaching $4.6 million by the final year in 2028.
In addition to his base salary, McGuire can earn up to $1 million annually in performance bonuses. He earned $110,000 in incentives during the 2023-24 school year and $180,000 during the 2022-23 school year.
How Did McGuire Build His Texas Tech Success?
McGuire’s path to financial success began during his legendary tenure at Cedar Hill High School in Cedar Hill, Texas, where he transformed a struggling program into a state powerhouse. Over 14 seasons, he compiled a 141-42 record while winning three state championships in 2006, 2013, and 2014.
Since arriving at Texas Tech in 2022, McGuire has posted a 23-16 overall record and became the first coach in program history to lead the Red Raiders to bowl victories in each of his first two seasons.
Texas Tech vs. Utah Prediction: Can Devon Dampier be the Difference-Maker in a Big 12 Slugfest?
The 2025 season validates Texas Tech’s investment in McGuire and his substantial contract. The Red Raiders started 3-0 with a No. 17 ranking, defeating Arkansas-Pine Bluff (67-7), Kent State (62-14), and Oregon State (45-14).
Most remarkably, Texas Tech hasn’t allowed a single point in the first half of any game this season, outscoring opponents 123-0 in first halves.
.@TexasTechFB HC Joey McGuire compares @Utah_Football QB Devon Dampier to Kyler Murray đŸ¤¯
“I compared him to Kyler Murray a little bit. And I feel like I’m pretty much an expert. I played him [Murray] two times whether it was in high school. I played him once at OU.”… pic.twitter.com/qn8UvBS3UM
— Bear Bets Podcast (@BearBetsPod) September 19, 2025
Saturday’s matchup against Utah represents a crucial test for a program that reportedly spent nearly $28 million on this year’s roster, ranking second nationally behind only Texas. PFSN’s CFB Playoff Predictor gives Utah a 60.6% chance to win the Big 12 opener, with Utah ranking eighth in power rankings compared to Texas Tech’s 13th position.
The game has major Big 12 championship stakes, with both teams viewed as the conference’s top title contenders. A win would make Texas Tech a serious College Football Playoff threat and give them early control of the conference race.
