Penn State’s stalled coaching search took another unexpected turn this week after reports surfaced that BYU head coach Kalani Sitake declined an offer worth north of $10 million per year to lead the Nittany Lions.
According to CBS Sports' Richard Johnson, Penn State administrators had operated for weeks under the belief that Sitake would replace James Franklin, who was fired Oct. 12.
Sitake emerged as a serious candidate late in the process with sources on both sides indicating momentum toward a deal. But by Tuesday, Sitake informed BYU officials he would remain in Provo, surprising decision-makers from both programs.
The proposed contract would have more than doubled Sitake’s BYU salary, which was estimated at roughly $4 million and ranked in the bottom half of the Big 12. However, Sitake's new deal is likely similar to Penn State's offer.
BYU responded aggressively to keep its coach, securing donor backing for a significant program investment that includes a long-term extension, increased staff salary pools and more NIL roster compensation. Sitake is now expected to become one of the highest-paid coach in the Big 12.
Sitake, 83-44 in a decade at BYU, has guided the Cougars to a 22-3 record over the past two seasons. His decision leaves Penn State without a head coach nearly eight weeks into its search. Another high-profile rejection has raised questions about the school’s direction coming out a program-worst signing day.
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