Arkansas coach Sam Pittman’s contract has a rare performance-based buyout clause. Depending on his record since 2021, that could cost the Razorbacks millions more if the two sides decide to part ways. Following a tough 56-13 loss to No. 22 Notre Dame, the Razorbacks drop to 2-3 on the season.
Sam Pittman’s Win-Loss Record Determines His Buyout Value
Pittman’s buyout was based on a straightforward win-loss formula. Arkansas needs to review its total record dating back to the 2021 season to finalize the final payout.
Since 2021, Pittman has been 29-26, keeping him just above the all-important .500 mark. As a result, Arkansas will now pay 75% of the remaining deal, which amounts to nearly $9.8 million.
However, if he finishes with a record below .500, the buyout shrinks sharply to just 50% of the remaining salary. That amount would be approximately $6.9 million. This leads to a variation of $2.9 million simply based on wins.
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Arkansas would divide the payments in a monthly manner through December 2027, with roughly $376,923 due each month if terminated. This unique clause rewards winning coaches with significantly higher buyout amounts.
After the loss to the Fighting Irish today, Arkansas sits at 2-3 just before they get into SEC play. While the “Hawgs” have a bye next week, the following Saturday, October 11, they travel to Knoxville to play Tennessee. In the following weeks, they have games against a ranked Texas A&M, Auburn, a tough Mississippi State, LSU, Texas, and Missouri.
