Tom Herman, the current head coach of Florida Atlantic Owls‘ football team, has quickly become a significant figure in college football. He took over the role on December 3, 2022, bringing with him a wealth of experience from his previous stints at the University of Houston and Texas.
Known for his impressive record and coaching skills, Herman is poised to elevate the Owls’ performance in the upcoming seasons.
Herman’s coaching career has been marked by notable achievements, including a 54-22 record over his first six seasons and an undefeated bowl game record. His ability to recruit top talent and craft offensive strategies has set him apart in the competitive field of college football.
With the Florida Atlantic Owls now under his guidance, there’s significant anticipation for how he will steer the team forward.
With the recent setbacks in 2023, including a challenging 4-8 season, Herman is determined to turn things around. His leadership qualities and football expertise make him a compelling figure to watch, not just for Owls fans but for the broader college football community. ESPN and CBS Sports are already keeping a close eye on how this respected coach will shape the team’s future.
Who Is Tom Herman?
Tom Herman is an American football coach who has made significant strides in his career, especially noted for his roles at various universities. He is currently the head coach of the Florida Atlantic Owls.
Where Did Tom Herman Grow Up?
Tom Herman grew up in Simi Valley, California. This suburban city in Ventura County provided the backdrop for his early years.
Growing up there, he developed an interest in football, which set the stage for his future career. The influence of the sports culture in and around California played a pivotal role in inspiring his career path.
His upbringing in Simi Valley helped shape his early ambitions and work ethic, crucial to his later success.
Where Did Tom Herman Play College Football?
Tom Herman played college football at California Lutheran University. He was a wide receiver for the California Lutheran Kingsmen and graduated with a degree in Business Administration.
His time at California Lutheran was instrumental in developing his understanding of the game. It laid the foundation for his future roles as a coach.
Herman’s experience as a player provided valuable insights that he later applied in his coaching career, contributing to his success at various programs.
Where Does Tom Herman Live?
Currently, Tom Herman resides in Boca Raton, Florida. As the head coach of the Florida Atlantic Owls, he has made his home in this vibrant city.
Boca Raton offers a conducive environment for both his family and professional life. Living in Boca Raton, Herman remains close to the university and its facilities.
This proximity allows him to be deeply involved with the team and community. The location also offers a pleasant lifestyle, balancing his demanding career.
Who Is Tom Herman Married To?
Tom Herman is married to Michelle Herman. The couple has been together for several years and shares a strong bond.
Michelle has been a supportive partner throughout his coaching journey. Together, they have three children: Priya, Maverick, and a third child whose name is publicly known.
The family aspect is crucial in Tom Herman’s life. Michelle’s support has been a cornerstone for his career and personal life, offering stability and encouragement.
Tom Herman Professional Career
Tom Herman has built a significant career in college football, showcasing his ability to lead and develop teams. His journey includes coaching roles at several universities, with many notable achievements along the way.
What Teams Has Tom Herman Previously Coached For?
Tom Herman began his coaching career as a graduate assistant at the University of Texas. He then served as an offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at several institutions:
- Texas State – Offensive Coordinator and Quarterbacks Coach
- Rice – Offensive Coordinator
- Iowa State – Offensive Coordinator
Herman gained national attention as the offensive coordinator at Ohio State University, where his team won the first College Football Playoff National Championship in 2015. He then became the head coach of the University of Houston, where he led the Cougars to significant victories, including a Peach Bowl win over Florida State.
After his success at Houston, Herman was hired as the head coach of the Texas Longhorns, where he served for four seasons.
What Team Is Tom Herman Currently Coaching For?
Tom Herman is currently the head coach of the Florida Atlantic Owls. He took over the role in December 2022 after the departure of Willie Taggart.
His first season with the Owls saw mixed results, ending with a 4-8 record in 2023. Despite the challenges, Herman has brought a renewed sense of optimism and direction to the FAU football program.
Does Tom Herman Want To Coach In The NFL?
There has been speculation about Tom Herman’s interest in coaching at the professional level, though he has not publicly committed to pursuing an NFL coaching career.
His extensive experience in college football, particularly as an offensive coordinator and head coach, positions him as a suitable candidate for an NFL coach role. However, Herman remains focused on developing young players and achieving success with the Florida Atlantic Owls.
What Are Tom Herman Future Prospects?
Tom Herman’s future prospects include potentially elevating Florida Atlantic to a competitive status within Conference USA and beyond.
With his proven track record of developing successful offenses and his ability to attract top talent, Herman aims to build a robust and consistently performing program at FAU.
His long-term ambitions may also include opportunities in bigger college programs or a possible leap to the NFL if the right opportunity arises.
Tom Herman Major Achievements And Awards
Throughout his coaching career, Tom Herman has accumulated numerous accolades:
- Broyles Award Winner (2014) – Recognized as the nation’s top assistant coach
- 2015 Peach Bowl Champion – As head coach of Houston
- Two-Time American Athletic Conference Champion – With Houston
- Big 12 Championship Game Appearance – With Texas Longhorns
- Sugar Bowl Champion (2018) – Defeated Georgia with Texas
His successful tenure at Ohio State also stands out, particularly for his role in their National Championship win as offensive coordinator.
Similar Coaches To Tom Herman
Several coaches share similar career paths and coaching philosophies with Tom Herman:
- Urban Meyer – Mentor to Herman, former Ohio State head coach with a prolific record
- Matt Campbell – Iowa State head coach, known for turning programs around
- Lane Kiffin – Former head coach at FAU, known for offensive prowess
- Josh Heupel – Tennessee head coach, also an offensive mastermind
- Mike Norvell – Florida State head coach, recognized for offensive innovation
These coaches, like Herman, have shaped their reputations by revitalizing programs and achieving success on both the conference and national stages.
How Does Tom Herman Do With NIL And Transfer Portal?
Tom Herman, head coach of the Florida Atlantic Owls, uses the transfer portal strategically and navigates NIL money effectively to build his team. His approach provides insight into his recruitment and management tactics.
Tom Herman And Transfer Portal
Tom Herman has a clear and strategic approach to the transfer portal. Unlike some schools labeled as “Transfer U,” he prefers to focus on building a strong team culture with selective transfers.
Herman emphasizes developing talent within the team while integrating key transfers who fit the program’s needs.
For example, as FAU enters National Signing Day, Herman has made it clear that he will not rely solely on the transfer portal for building his squad.
This strategy reflects his broader vision of long-term team development over quick fixes. His tenure at FAU demonstrates a balanced mix of recruiting high school talent and utilizing the transfer portal to fill specific gaps.
Tom Herman And NIL Money
NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) money has dramatically altered the landscape of college football.
Tom Herman has adapted to these changes by supporting his players’ opportunities to benefit from NIL deals.
He has fostered an environment where players can focus on both their athletic and personal brand development.
At FAU, Herman ensures that NIL opportunities align with the team’s values and academic commitments.
By doing so, he helps players balance their commercial interests with their roles on the team.
This approach not only aids in player retention but also attracts new talent who see the potential for growth both on and off the field.
How Much Is Tom Herman’s Contract For?
Tom Herman’s contract as the head coach of the Florida Atlantic Owls, signed in 2022, is specific in its structure. It includes both salary and potential incentives that can significantly boost his overall earnings.
How Much Does Tom Herman Make In Salary Per Year?
Tom Herman’s contract spans five years. His annual base salary starts at $1 million in 2024. Each year, his salary increases incrementally:
- 2024: $1 million
- 2025: $1.25 million
- 2026: $1.35 million
- 2027: Ends the contract term
In 2023, his base salary was $700,000, as outlined by USA Today.
Herman is among the higher-paid coaches in college football, reflecting his experience and successful career.
How Much Does Tom Herman Make In Incentives Per Year?
In addition to his base salary, Tom Herman’s contract includes various performance-based incentives. These incentives can increase his earnings significantly. They are often tied to the team’s success in different metrics:
- Bowl Games: Bonuses for qualifying and winning bowl games.
- Championships: Bonuses for championships at the conference or national level.
- Player Performance: Incentives for player academic achievements and all-conference honors.
These incentives motivate high performance and align with the goals of the Florida Atlantic Owls. Additionally, Athletic Director collaboration often ensures the coach meets specific program goals and milestones.
Tom Herman Contract Buyout Costs
Florida Atlantic University faces potential financial costs if they decide to buy out Tom Herman’s contract. These costs are influenced by the complex terms of his employment agreement and potential financial impact on the university’s budget.
Overview of Tom Herman’s Contract
Tom Herman, currently serving as the head coach at Florida Atlantic University, signed a five-year deal. The contract includes a base annual salary with incremental increases, reflecting his progression and achievements as a coach. His initial salary starts at $750,000 and grows to $1 million in 2024. This financial commitment signifies the university’s expectation of long-term growth and success under his leadership.
It’s not just about the salary, but also other perks and performance bonuses, which make the buyout potentially complex.
Breakdown of Buyout Terms
The buyout terms for Tom Herman’s contract detail how much Florida Atlantic would need to pay if they decided to terminate the agreement early. This is not a simple figure, as it involves calculations based on the remaining salary and possible penalties.
Such terms can include payments for any bonuses Herman would have earned if retained until the end of the contract. These terms provide financial security for Herman while acting as a deterrent against premature termination by the university.
Financial Implications of the Buyout
The financial implications for Florida Atlantic, if they choose to buy out Tom Herman’s contract, include direct costs and potential impacts on future budgets.
A substantial buyout fee, potentially around $15.4 million, could affect other financial commitments within the athletics department. This includes funding for other programs and possibly increasing pressure on securing additional funding or sponsorships.
The university would need to carefully balance these financial considerations with their vision for the future of their football program and the potential costs of recruiting a new head coach.
What Is Tom Herman Net Worth?
Tom Herman is the head coach of the Florida Atlantic Owls and has established himself in the world of college football. His net worth is estimated to be around $15 million. This is influenced by his coaching salaries, bonuses, and other incentives throughout his career.
Salary Overview
Tom Herman signed a five-year contract with Florida Atlantic University. His base salary began at $750,000.
In 2024, his salary increased to $1 million. This figure reflects annual incremental increases mentioned in his contract.
Previous Earnings
Before joining FAU, Tom Herman had coaching stints at the University of Texas and the University of Houston. These roles contributed significantly to his overall net worth.
- University of Texas:
- Annual Salary: $6.5 million
- University of Houston:
- Annual Salary: $3 million
Bonuses and Incentives
Herman’s contracts often include performance-based bonuses. For example, if the FAU Owls win a conference championship or reach a bowl game, he is eligible for additional compensation.
Other Income Sources
Besides his salary, Tom Herman may also earn from endorsements, public speaking engagements, and media appearances. These activities can enhance his annual income and net worth, adding financial diversity to his career.
Learn more about Tom Herman’s career and finances here.