Arizona State is finalizing a new contract extension with Kenny Dillingham, according to ESPN's Pete Thamel. This solidifys the program’s commitment to its 35-year-old coach amid recent speculation linking him to the opening at Michigan.
Dillingham, who signed a five-year deal a year ago, is expected to receive a new agreement that includes a significant increase in program resources.
According to Thamel, the extension features a staff salary pool of up to $11 million, which is among the highest in the Big 12, along with a roster payroll commitment designed to keep Arizona State competitive in the modern NIL era. The contract is expected to average $7.5 million annually, with incentives that could extend the deal to as long as 10 years.
Sources: Kenny Dillingham has signed a new contract at Arizona State, which will average $7.5 million over the course of the deal. The staff salary pool is up to $11 million, which puts it near the top of the Big 12. Pic.twitter.com/Z94dFG9thG
— Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) December 20, 2025
The Sun Devils are 22-16 in three seasons under Dillingham and will face Duke in the Sun Bowl on Dec. 31. Arizona State finished the 2025 regular season 8-4 despite starting quarterback Sam Leavitt missing five games with an injury.
Dillingham’s tenure has already included a historic breakthrough. In 2024, Arizona State won the Big 12 title after being picked last in the preseason poll, advancing to the College Football Playoff quarterfinals.
Following Michigan’s firing of Sherrone Moore for cause, Dillingham acknowledged the outside interest but reiterated his loyalty to his alma mater.
“I love this place,” Dillingham said earlier this week. “My family’s here. This is home.”
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