Butch Jones currently serves as the head football coach at Arkansas State University. With a coaching career spanning over a decade at elite NCAA FBS programs, he brings an extensive array of experience to the Red Wolves.
Before his current role, Jones helmed teams at notable universities such as Tennessee and Cincinnati, shaping him into a seasoned leader with a compelling vision for success.
Jones took over as the Red Wolves’ head coach on December 12, 2020, following Blake Anderson’s tenure. His hiring was endorsed by Arkansas State’s Vice Chancellor for Intercollegiate Athletics, Terry Mohajir, who recognized Jones’ leadership abilities and extensive head-coaching experience.
Under his guidance, the team has focused on enhancing their performance and achieving consistent success on the field.
Jones aims to build a solid foundation for the Red Wolves, encouraging discipline, hard work, and strategic planning.
His emphasis on recruiting top talent and developing players’ skills has been integral to his coaching philosophy.
As he continues to lead Arkansas State, his vision and leadership hold the potential to elevate the team’s status in college football.
For more detailed information on Butch Jones, visit Arkansas State University’s official profile.
Who Is Butch Jones?
Butch Jones is the current head coach of the Arkansas State Red Wolves football team. His coaching journey has seen him lead various college football teams, gaining experience and recognition across the states.
Where Did Butch Jones Grow Up?
Butch Jones, born Lyle Allen “Butch” Jones Jr., grew up in the state of Michigan. He spent his early years in Saugatuck, a small town known for its tight-knit community and rich sports culture.
His upbringing in Michigan played a significant role in cultivating his passion for football. Saugatuck High School is where he first showcased his talent and leadership skills on the football field.
This early exposure to the sport laid the foundation for his future career in college football coaching.
Where Did Butch Jones Play College Football?
Butch Jones played college football at Ferris State University in Big Rapids, Michigan. A student-athlete, he balanced academics with athletics, earning a spot on the Ferris State Bulldogs football team.
During his time there, he gained valuable experience and knowledge of the game, which would later benefit his coaching career.
His tenure at Ferris State showcased his dedication and understanding of football, traits that would define his coaching ethos.
After completing his degree, he transitioned from player to coach, marking the start of his distinguished career in college football. More information on Butch Jones can be found here.
Where Does Butch Jones Live?
Currently, Butch Jones resides in Jonesboro, Arkansas, where he coaches the Arkansas State Red Wolves.
His move to Jonesboro coincided with his appointment as the head coach of the football team in December 2020.
The city serves as a base for both his professional and personal life. Being in Jonesboro allows him to be closely involved with the football community at Arkansas State University.
His residence in the area reflects his commitment to the team’s success and his role within the community. More details on his current role can be found here.
Who Is Butch Jones Married To?
Butch Jones is married to his wife, Barbara Jones. The couple has been together for many years, supporting each other through the ups and downs of life and career.
Barbara has been a constant presence at his games and events, often seen cheering him on from the sidelines.
They have three sons together, Alex, Adam, and Andrew, who are also involved in sports.
The family’s strong bond and mutual support have been pivotal in Butch Jones’s career, providing him with stability and motivation.
Their commitment to each other mirrors the dedication he brings to his coaching career.
Butch Jones Professional Career
Butch Jones has a diverse coaching background in college football, with experience leading several high-profile programs. His tenure has included multiple achievements, such as winning conference championships and developing NFL talent.
What Teams Has Butch Jones Previously Coached For?
Butch Jones began his head coaching career at Central Michigan, leading the Chippewas from 2007 to 2009. His leadership helped the team capture two Mid-American Conference (MAC) championships.
Next, he moved to Cincinnati, where he coached from 2010 to 2012. There, he achieved two Big East titles.
Following Cincinnati, Jones took over the Tennessee Volunteers from 2013 to 2017, where he recorded three bowl game victories, including a win in the 2016 Citrus Bowl.
Before joining Arkansas State, he served as a special assistant and offensive analyst at Alabama, contributing to their CFP National Championship win in 2020.
What Team Is Butch Jones Currently Coaching For?
As of December 12, 2020, Butch Jones is the head coach at Arkansas State.
Under his leadership, the Arkansas State Red Wolves aim to rebuild their football program and return to the winning standards they once enjoyed.
The Red Wolves compete in the Sun Belt Conference, and Jones’s third year in 2023 saw some success, hinting at a positive trajectory for the team.
Does Butch Jones Want To Coach In The NFL?
Butch Jones has yet to publicly express a desire to coach in the NFL. His extensive experience at the NCAA FBS level has kept his focus on college football, where he has developed players like Alvin Kamara, Travis Kelce, and Antonio Brown.
His current aspiration seems to be revitalizing the Arkansas State football program, leaning on his vast coaching experience rather than seeking an NFL position.
What Are Butch Jones Future Prospects?
Jones’s future prospects are inherently tied to his success at Arkansas State.
If he can turn the Red Wolves into a consistent contender in the Sun Belt Conference, he might garner interest from larger programs.
His previous stints at Tennessee, Cincinnati, and Central Michigan, combined with his time as an Alabama assistant, provide robust credentials that could appeal to other major college football programs or potential administrative roles in collegiate athletics.
Butch Jones Major Achievements And Awards
Butch Jones has several notable achievements in his career. He has won multiple conference championships, including MAC titles with Central Michigan and Big East titles with Cincinnati.
During his tenure at Tennessee, he led the Volunteers to three bowl victories, enhancing his reputation.
Additionally, Jones has been recognized for developing top talent, some of whom have become NFL draft picks and Pro Bowl players.
Similar Coaches To Butch Jones
Coaches with paths similar to Butch Jones often have extensive collegiate experience and a track record of building programs.
For instance, coaches like Brett Bielema, who has also had varied experiences in the Big Ten and SEC, mirrors Jones’s journey.
Another similar coach is Tom Herman, who has led multiple college programs with a focus on turning teams around.
These coaches share Jones’s knack for rebuilding programs and developing NFL-level talent.
How Does Butch Jones Do With NIL And Transfer Portal?
Butch Jones is known for utilizing new tools available in college football to improve his team. His approach to the transfer portal and NIL money shows how he adapts to the evolving landscape.
Butch Jones And Transfer Portal
Since arriving at Arkansas State, Butch Jones has taken full advantage of the transfer portal.
With many players looking for new opportunities, he has used this to bring in athletes who can make an immediate impact.
This strategy plays a key role in rebuilding the Arkansas State Red Wolves.
He has successfully added multiple transfers each season, demonstrating his skill in scouting and recruiting talent that fits his system.
These transfers often bring experience and depth to the team, making the Red Wolves more competitive in their conference.
Jones’s history with other programs like Tennessee and Alabama has given him a vast network, helping him to attract quality players through the portal.
This approach has been integral in his efforts to rebuild and strengthen the team’s roster.
Butch Jones And NIL Money
Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) money has transformed college football, allowing players to earn money while playing.
Butch Jones has embraced this change, understanding its importance in modern recruiting.
Arkansas State provides many opportunities for players to benefit from NIL deals, enhancing their college experience.
Jones works closely with the university’s athletics department to ensure players have the support needed to navigate NIL opportunities.
This focus on player welfare and financial growth helps attract top talent, showing recruits that they will be well-supported both on and off the field.
His proactive stance on NIL demonstrates his adaptability and commitment to providing the best environment for his athletes.
This approach strengthens Arkansas State’s appeal as a destination for aspiring football stars.
How Much Is Butch Jones’s Contract For?
Butch Jones has a significant contract with Arkansas State, which covers both his annual salary and potential incentives. This section breaks down the main components of his compensation.
How Much Does Butch Jones Make In Salary Per Year?
Butch Jones earns an annual salary of $825,000 as the head coach of the Arkansas State Red Wolves.
He signed a five-year contract in 2020, which extends through the 2026 season after an extension was announced in 2022.
His salary is part of a broader financial strategy by the administration to build a competitive football program.
This base salary places Jones among the well-compensated coaches in college football, reflecting his experience and the expectations for his performance at the university.
How Much Does Butch Jones Make In Incentives Per Year?
In addition to his base salary, Butch Jones has the potential to earn incentives based on specific performance metrics.
These incentives can be tied to team achievements, such as winning a conference championship, making bowl game appearances, or improving team performance year-over-year.
While the exact figures for his incentives are not specified in the publicly available contracts, such performance bonuses are common in college football to motivate and reward successful coaching tenures.
These performance-based earnings can significantly boost his overall compensation package, encouraging both individual and team excellence.
For more on this extension, you can read this announcement.
Butch Jones Contract Buyout Costs
The potential firing of Coach Butch Jones brings to light significant financial considerations for Arkansas State. These revolve around the specifics of his contract terms, including the buyout costs that would be incurred if he were dismissed before the end of his term.
Overview of Butch Jones’s Contract
Butch Jones signed a contract with Arkansas State in December 2020. This agreement outlines his role as the head football coach, with an annual salary set at $825,000.
Initially, the contract was set to run through December 31, 2025, but it was extended for an extra year through 2026 without a salary increase. His record performance is central to this contract discussion, as his team’s results can influence the decision on whether to continue his employment or not.
This contract extension occurred despite a less-than-desirable win-loss record. The school has invested heavily in him, hoping for a turnaround in their football program’s fortune.
His salary and contract terms emphasize the expectations placed on him to lift the team’s performance.
Breakdown of Buyout Terms
The buyout terms for Jones’s contract outline the financial obligations Arkansas State would face if he were fired before the contract expires.
It is common for college football contracts to include financial penalties for early termination, ensuring the coach receives some form of compensation. These terms usually involve a lump sum payment or a series of payments equating to a percentage of the remaining salary.
In this case, if Jones is dismissed, the university might be obligated to pay a considerable amount, reflecting the investment they made when hiring him. This buyout is designed to protect both parties financially and provides some job security for Jones while ensuring the university can part ways if it deems it necessary for the program’s future.
Financial Implications of the Buyout
The financial impact of terminating Butch Jones’s contract early could be substantial for Arkansas State.
Paying out a buyout would require utilizing funds that might otherwise be allocated for other areas of the athletics department or university priorities. Additionally, the cost can strain the budget, especially if the program is not generating enough revenue from ticket sales, sponsorships, or donations.
The decision to proceed with a buyout needs careful financial consideration. It would affect not only the university’s finances but also its reputation and relationships with fans and sponsors, who may view this as a significant move signifying a change in the program’s direction.
Balancing the potential benefits of change against the immediate financial costs is crucial in this decision-making process.
What Is Butch Jones Net Worth?
Butch Jones, the head coach of the Arkansas State Red Wolves, has built a significant career in college football.
After previous coaching jobs at Tennessee and Cincinnati, Jones brought his experience to Arkansas State. His net worth reflects his long career in the sport.
In his role as head coach, Jones earns a yearly salary that significantly contributes to his net worth.
According to USA Today, his salary includes scheduled school pay and bonuses.
Current Salary:
- Annual Base Salary: $825,000
Forbes estimates his net worth to be around $3 million. This figure includes his earnings from past coaching positions and endorsements.
Previous Earnings:
- Tennessee: Approximately $4.1 million per year
- Cincinnati: Around $1.6 million per year
Outside his salary, Jones has various endorsements and investments that add to his overall financial standing.
The extension of his contract through 2026, as mentioned by KAIT8, also secures his financial future at Arkansas State.
Contract Extension Details:
- Extended Through: 2026
Jones’ influence isn’t limited to just financials. His leadership has seen numerous players achieve high academic standards. Several were recognized as Academic All-Conference Winners and Academic Honor Roll Recipients.
Despite searching for his first winning season at Arkansas State, Jones’ financial success is evident. His earnings and net worth reflect his long-standing presence and reputation in college football.