Matt Campbell made an unusual choice with his new Iowa State Cyclones contract. After leading the Cyclones to their best season in program history and proving he could compete with anyone in the Big 12, he had every reason to push for big money.
But Campbell did something completely different instead. What he did shows exactly where his heart truly lies when it comes to building a winning program.
How Did Matt Campbell Put Cyclones First in Historic Extension?
Campbell got a raise from his previous $4 million salary to $5 million annually through 2032, but he took far less than what he could have earned. After Iowa State’s historic 2024 season, he had leverage to demand much more money.
Instead, Campbell used that leverage to boost his assistant coaches’ salaries and fund $1 million in revenue-sharing for players. He left money on the table so his program could get stronger. The extension includes performance incentives ranging from $250,000 for seven wins up to $1.5 million for a perfect 12-0 season.
In a recent YouTube video on Heartland College Sports, the analyst broke down this decision:
“Campbell accepted a modest pay reduction to finalize an extension through 2032. Why? So he could increase pay for his staff. That’s right. And also why? Well, he can put more money towards revenue sharing, another million dollars towards revenue sharing,” referring to Campbell taking less than his market value.
He continued, “How many coaches are doing that? And how many of them would ever do it at Iowa State, for crying out loud? He’s taking a modest pay cut and signing contract extensions because he wants to win so bad where he is. He’s willing to do that.”
Why Does Campbell’s Choice Matter So Much at Iowa State?
The point hits hard because Iowa State was college football’s doormat for decades. Most coaches would demand top dollar after a breakthrough season, but Campbell took less money to help his staff and players at a historically struggling program.
Campbell’s 2024 season gave him every right to ask for more. The Cyclones went 11-3 with their first 11-win season ever, reached the Big 12 Championship Game, and beat Miami in the Pop-Tarts Bowl. He became the winningest coach in school history.
“You think that Mike Gundy or any other Big 12 coach would have gotten to a Big 12 championship game, signed an extension, and taken a pay cut doing it?” the host said. The question shows just how rare Campbell’s choice was.
“You have got to be pinching yourself right now if you are an Iowa State fan, because of how good you’ve got it with this guy,” the host concluded.
Campbell’s decision could be the best investment he has made for Iowa State. His choice to sacrifice his own earnings to strengthen the program shows exactly why the Cyclones keep winning more than anyone expected. In a sport where coaches chase the highest bidder, Campbell chose loyalty and long-term success over immediate financial gain.
