Matt Entz Salary in 2025

Matt Entz, the head coach of North Dakota State University’s (NDSU) Bison football team, has garnered attention for his leadership and success within college football. Known for his strategic acumen and ability to lead the Bison to multiple championships, Entz has firmly established himself in the coaching world. As with many top coaches, his salary is influenced by several factors, including experience, performance, the school’s athletic budget, and the overall market for college football coaches. This article explores Matt Entz’s salary in 2025, the factors influencing his earnings, salary progression with experience, job market trends in coaching, and the educational background that may impact earnings in this career.

Matt Entz’s Estimated Salary Range in 2025

As of recent years, head coaches in college football, especially those in successful programs like NDSU, earn impressive salaries. While the exact salary of Matt Entz in 2025 is not publicly disclosed, the general range for a head coach in FCS (Football Championship Subdivision) programs like NDSU can provide some insight:

Average Salary Range: For coaches leading top FCS programs, salaries range from $400,000 to $1.5 million annually, depending on factors such as team performance, contract negotiations, and institutional budgets. Given the success of NDSU under Entz, it’s likely that his salary will be toward the higher end of this spectrum.
Bonuses and Performance Incentives: Coaches in major programs often receive bonuses for winning championships, achieving specific win totals, or securing post-season appearances. These additional earnings can significantly increase Entz’s total compensation package.

Factors That Influence Matt Entz’s Salary

Several factors contribute to how much a coach like Matt Entz can earn in 2025:

1. Performance and Success

Winning Championships: Success on the field, such as national championships or conference titles, plays a crucial role in determining a coach’s salary. Matt Entz’s leadership in guiding NDSU to multiple FCS championships has likely had a positive impact on his compensation.
Team Ranking and Reputation: Teams that consistently perform well, attract top recruits, and maintain high rankings in the league often offer their coaches larger salaries.

2. Experience and Tenure

Coaching Career Length: More experienced coaches, especially those with a proven track record, tend to command higher salaries. Entz, having gained experience as both a coordinator and head coach, is in a strong position to secure higher compensation.
Longevity at the School: Coaches who have spent several years building a program from the ground up often receive better contracts, as their success becomes ingrained in the institution’s culture.

3. Institutional Budget and Athletic Program

School Size and Athletic Revenue: Universities with larger athletic budgets and football programs, such as NDSU, tend to offer more lucrative contracts. The financial health of the program and revenue from ticket sales, merchandise, and TV deals can influence coaching salaries.
Conference Affiliation: NDSU competes in the Missouri Valley Football Conference, one of the top FCS leagues. Coaches in competitive conferences typically earn more due to the increased visibility and prestige.

4. Market Trends and Demand for Coaches

College Football Growth: With the increasing attention on college football, particularly in the FCS, demand for top-tier coaches has surged. The competition to hire experienced, successful coaches like Matt Entz drives salaries higher.

Salary by Experience

Coaching salaries increase as coaches progress in their careers. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect depending on experience level:

Entry-Level Coaches (0-5 years): New head coaches typically earn between $150,000 and $400,000 annually, depending on the institution.
Mid-Level Coaches (5-10 years): With a solid record and reputation, coaches in this stage may earn between $400,000 and $800,000 per year.
Experienced Coaches (10+ years): Coaches like Matt Entz, who have consistently led their teams to championships and maintained a high level of performance, can earn $1 million+ annually.

Job Market Trends for Coaches in 2025

The demand for skilled football coaches, particularly in college sports, is expected to continue growing in 2025, driven by several key factors:

1. Increasing Revenue for College Football Programs

College football programs, especially at the FCS and FBS (Football Bowl Subdivision) levels, are growing in revenue. This is due to increasing TV contracts, media rights, and corporate sponsorships. Schools are investing more in their athletic departments, which includes paying higher salaries to successful coaches.

2. Competitive Coaching Landscape

As college football programs continue to grow in competitiveness, there’s an ongoing battle for top talent—both players and coaches. This creates higher demand for experienced and successful coaches like Matt Entz.

3. Expansion of College Football Playoffs and Television Exposure

The expanding reach of college football, particularly with playoff games and improved TV coverage, allows for greater visibility of programs like NDSU. Coaches in these high-profile positions are often in demand, raising their earning potential.

Benefits of Being a Head Football Coach

Being a successful football coach offers numerous benefits beyond the salary:

Job Security: Successful coaches with a proven track record, such as Matt Entz, often enjoy greater job stability and longer contracts.
Increased Prestige: Coaching a top team in college football elevates a coach’s status, both within the sports industry and in the public eye.
Additional Revenue Opportunities: High-profile coaches often have opportunities for paid speaking engagements, endorsements, and media appearances.

Education and Certifications Impacting Salary

While a degree is essential for career entry, higher education and specific certifications can enhance a coach’s qualifications and salary potential:

Bachelor’s Degree in Sports Management or Related Field: A fundamental requirement for becoming a coach.
Master’s Degree: While not always necessary, some coaches pursue a master’s degree in sports management, business, or education to enhance their leadership and managerial skills.
Coaching Certifications: Some coaches pursue specialized coaching programs or certifications in football strategies and player development to stay ahead in their careers.

Conclusion

In 2025, Matt Entz is expected to earn a competitive salary, potentially in the range of $500,000 to $1.5 million, with bonuses based on team performance. His salary is influenced by a combination of his coaching success, experience, and the financial position of NDSU’s athletic program. As the demand for top coaches continues to grow in college football, Matt Entz’s earnings will likely remain strong, with opportunities for additional income from endorsements and speaking engagements. For aspiring coaches, his career trajectory serves as an example of how experience, success, and continuous professional development can lead to lucrative opportunities in the sports industry