Derek Mason, a seasoned coach with nearly three decades of experience, is now the head football coach for Middle Tennessee State University.
Named as the 15th head coach for the Blue Raiders in December 2023, Mason brings a wealth of expertise and a fresh perspective to the program.
Prior to this role, he worked as an analyst for the SEC Network and had previously been the head coach at Vanderbilt.
Middle Tennessee’s Director of Athletics, Chris Massaro, expressed immense excitement at Mason’s appointment, seeing him as the right person to build on the strong foundation left by former coach Rick Stockstill.
Mason’s career includes notable positions and achievements; he has worked with several universities and NFL teams, including his time as a defensive coordinator for Stanford and as an assistant coach for the Minnesota Vikings.
Mason’s appointment is a significant moment for Blue Raider football, marking the beginning of a new era.
His track record of developing players and rebuilding programs is expected to bring significant improvements.
To learn more about his journey and plans for Middle Tennessee, visit the official Middle Tennessee State University Athletics page.
Who Is Derek Mason?
Derek Mason is an experienced college football coach known for his leadership and coaching skills. He is currently the head coach of the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders, having taken the role in December 2023.
Where Did Derek Mason Grow Up?
Derek Mason grew up in Phoenix, Arizona.
During his childhood in Phoenix, he developed a passion for football.
He played at Camelback High School, where he stood out as a talented player.
This early exposure to football in Phoenix laid the foundation for his future career in sports and coaching.
Where Did Derek Mason Play College Football?
Derek Mason played college football at Northern Arizona University.
He played as a cornerback for the Northern Arizona Lumberjacks.
His college football career was characterized by his strong defensive skills and dedication to the game.
Derek’s time at Northern Arizona helped hone the attributes that would later define his approach to coaching.
Where Does Derek Mason Live?
Derek Mason currently resides in Murfreesboro, Tennessee.
As the head coach of Middle Tennessee State University’s football team, he moved to Murfreesboro to be closer to his work.
Living in Murfreesboro allows him to be actively involved with the team and community, fostering a close relationship with the players and fans.
Who Is Derek Mason Married To?
Derek Mason is married to LeighAnne Mason.
Together, they have built a supportive family environment.
LeighAnne has been a significant part of Derek’s journey, offering encouragement and support throughout his coaching career.
Their partnership is a vital part of his life, balancing his professional ambitions with a stable family life.
Derek Mason Professional Career
Derek Mason has had a robust career in college football, showcasing his expertise through various coaching roles. In this section, we will explore the teams he has coached, his current position, his aspirations for the future, and his major achievements.
What Teams Has Derek Mason Previously Coached For?
Derek Mason’s coaching journey began in 1994 at Mesa Community College.
Over the years, he served in various roles at schools like Weber State, Bucknell, and Utah. He held positions such as defensive backs coach and special teams coordinator.
From 2010 to 2013, he was at Stanford University, where he acted as associate head coach and defensive coordinator.
At Stanford, Mason’s defenses were known for being fast and aggressive, helping the team secure multiple bowl appearances.
Find the best accommodations
Check availability at 5* hotels, guest houses and apartments rated "superb" or "exceptional" by visitors just like you.
NO RESERVATION FEES
CHECK AVAILABILITY FOR YOUR DATES HERE
He then took on the role of head coach at Vanderbilt University from 2014 to 2020.
Mason’s tenure at Vanderbilt was marked by the development of strong defensive units and competitive performances in the SEC.
In 2022, he joined Oklahoma State as the defensive coordinator, where he continued to make an impact with his coaching style.
What Team Is Derek Mason Currently Coaching For?
As of December 6, 2023, Derek Mason is the head coach of the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders.
He was brought in to lead the Blue Raiders football program, succeeding Rick Stockstill.
Mason aims to bring his extensive experience to Middle Tennessee State University and enhance their competitive edge in Conference USA.
His focus will be on building a cohesive team known for its defensive strengths and overall discipline on the field.
Does Derek Mason Want To Coach In The NFL?
Derek Mason has primarily built his career in college football, where he has found considerable success.
Though he has not made any public statements explicitly stating his intent to coach in the NFL, his extensive experience and success at the collegiate level could make him a viable candidate for future NFL opportunities.
Mason has shown a keen interest in developing young talent and building strong defensive teams, traits that are highly valued at the professional level.
His background suggests that if the right opportunity arises, he might consider making the move to the NFL.
What Are Derek Mason Future Prospects?
Derek Mason’s future prospects look promising, especially considering his track record and expertise.
At Middle Tennessee State University, he has the chance to further cement his reputation by improving the Blue Raiders’ performance in Conference USA.
If Mason continues to deliver strong results, he could become a sought-after candidate for other high-profile college football programs or even NFL teams.
His coaching philosophy, focused on fast and aggressive defense, will likely continue to resonate with future employers.
Derek Mason Major Achievements And Awards
Mason’s career is highlighted by several notable achievements.
While at Stanford, he was part of the coaching staff that led the team to multiple BCS bowl games. His defenses often ranked highly in national statistics.
During his time at Vanderbilt, Mason’s team earned bowl appearances such as the Independence Bowl and the Texas Bowl.
He also earned recognition through his nomination for the Broyles Award, which honors the top assistant coach in college football.
Similar Coaches To Derek Mason
Several coaches share similar career paths and coaching philosophies with Derek Mason.
For instance, Jim Harbaugh, who has also coached at both Stanford and Michigan, emphasizes strong defensive play and overall team discipline.
David Shaw, Mason’s colleague at Stanford, is another coach known for his defensive strategies and success in college football.
These coaches, like Mason, have built their careers on creating competitive teams with a strong emphasis on defense and player development.
How Does Derek Mason Do With NIL And Transfer Portal?
Derek Mason brings strong connections and recruiting experience from his years in the SEC, which is crucial for navigating the modern college football landscape. His approach to the transfer portal and NIL money will be key for Middle Tennessee’s success.
Derek Mason And Transfer Portal
Derek Mason, known for his recruiting prowess in the SEC, leverages his experience to attract talent through the transfer portal.
At Middle Tennessee, he has already brought in key players to fill gaps left by departures.
His ability to quickly adapt and use the portal strategically makes him an asset.
Mason’s experience at the Power 5 level gives him access to high-caliber players looking for new opportunities.
This is especially useful when rebuilding the roster after significant transfers out.
His past success at Vanderbilt, where he led the team to bowl games, underscores his effective use of available resources, including the transfer portal.
Derek Mason And NIL Money
Navigating the new world of NIL money is critical for any college football coach today.
Derek Mason employs his extensive network and reputation to secure beneficial deals for Middle Tennessee players.
The changing dynamics due to NIL money have made recruiting more complex but also more rewarding.
Mason’s strategy involves ensuring players get fair compensation while maintaining focus on their performance.
He has adapted to this new aspect of college football, helping Middle Tennessee stay competitive in attracting and retaining top players.
His familiarity with the NIL landscape, influenced by his time in the highly competitive SEC, is beneficial for the Blue Raiders.
His balanced approach helps players succeed both on and off the field.
How Much Is Derek Mason’s Contract For?
Derek Mason has been hired as the head coach for the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders with a substantial contract. This includes a five-year agreement with annual salary details and potential incentives.
How Much Does Derek Mason Make In Salary Per Year?
Derek Mason’s contract with the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders includes a base salary of $1 million per year.
This lucrative deal began upon his hiring on December 6, 2023, and reflects the university’s investment in revamping their football program.
The contract details emphasize not only Mason’s experience but also the school’s commitment to building a strong team under his leadership five-year agreement with the school.
How Much Does Derek Mason Make In Incentives Per Year?
Apart from his base salary, Derek Mason may earn additional incentives based on the team’s performance.
These incentives often include bonuses for reaching bowl games, winning championships, or achieving certain team milestones.
Although the specific incentive amounts are not publicly detailed, it is typical for such contracts to include performance-based financial rewards to motivate and acknowledge successful achievements.
Incentive structures are designed to enhance the overall success of the team under Mason’s guidance.
Derek Mason Contract Buyout Costs
The exit of Derek Mason from his position as head football coach at Middle Tennessee State University involves significant financial considerations. His contract’s buyout terms will determine the cost implications for the university.
Overview of Derek Mason’s Contract
Derek Mason’s contract with Middle Tennessee State was a five-year agreement. As a new head coach, Mason secured a base salary of approximately $1 million per year. This package typically included various performance-related incentives and other perks associated with his role as a football coach, given his previous experience as a Vanderbilt head coach.
His contract likely involved specific clauses detailing the conditions for ending the agreement early, which is crucial for understanding buyout costs. These terms would have been negotiated to protect both parties financially.
Breakdown of Buyout Terms
The buyout terms in Mason’s contract outline the financial obligations of both Mason and the university if the contract is terminated prematurely.
Typically, such a buyout would include payments to compensate Mason for lost salary that he would have earned had he completed his contract term as head coach.
These terms often provide Mason with a lump sum or a series of payments. The payments depend on the amount of time remaining on his contract. Additionally, the buyout agreement might include adjustments if Mason secures another coaching position during the payout period.
Financial Implications of the Buyout
The financial impact of Mason’s buyout on Middle Tennessee State is significant. Paying out a buyout can place a strain on the university’s athletics budget, influencing priorities and future hiring decisions.
The exact amount depends on the remaining term of the contract and how quickly the university finds a new head football coach.
Furthermore, Middle Tennessee must weigh the benefits of a coaching change against the costs involved. These decisions affect stakeholders including staff, players, and the broader community.
The College Football Network highlights the importance of clear financial planning for athletic departments in such situations.
What Is Derek Mason Net Worth?
Derek Mason, the current head coach of the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders, has built a significant reputation through his coaching career.
His annual salary is estimated to be around $1 million.
Given his five-year contract, this brings his total earnings to about $5 million.
His net worth is likely around $5 million, although this estimate does not include performance-related incentives or additional perks.
Coaching roles often come with bonuses for achievements like bowl game appearances or winning seasons, which can significantly increase compensation.
Derek Mason has had a long career in collegiate coaching, spanning over 29 years. This extensive experience enhances his market value.
For more details, visit Derek Mason Salary, Contract, Net Worth, and More.
Multiple sources confirm his return to coaching with Middle Tennessee after his previous roles at Vanderbilt and Auburn. This move has renewed interest in his financial status.
His role with the Blue Raiders as of December 2023 marks his first head coaching position since leaving Vanderbilt.
His extensive experience is reflected in his compensation package.
Visit Derek Mason – Head Coach for more information on his career achievements.
Get the latest sent right to your inbox