Hugh Freeze’s tenure at Auburn has faced significant scrutiny due to inconsistent performances and a string of frustrating losses, including blowing a significant lead in their recent game against Missouri. Auburn fans have voiced their displeasure on social media, and calls for his removal have grown louder as the team struggles to win in the SEC. Auburn, which historically has not had much patience with underperforming coaches, may be considering its options with Freeze if the program fails to turn things around.
They shouldn’t allow hugh freeze back in the locker room after that. How he is still employed is an absolute mystery.
— 21 DUÑDEE 🐊 (@bigmeech2167) October 19, 2024
The sooner we fire Hugh Freeze, the sooner we can relieve Ohio State of the burden of Ryan Day
— bitter aubie (@bitteraubie) October 19, 2024
Hugh Freeze Contract and Salary
Hugh Freeze’s contract with Auburn is a six-year deal, worth $6.5 million annually, with the potential for performance-based incentives to increase his salary to $10 million. Here are the specific details:
- Contract length: 6 years (2023–2028)
- Annual salary: $6.5 million
- Retention bonus: $225,000 paid each February 1st
Hugh Freeze Incentives
- SEC Wins: $150,000 for each SEC win after the 5th conference victory.
- Division Championship: $200,000 for winning the SEC West.
- SEC Championship: $200,000 for winning the SEC title.
- Bowl Game: Varies from $50,000 for lesser bowl games up to $2 million for winning a national championship.
- Coach of the Year: $75,000 for SEC or any major national award.
Hugh Freeze Buyout
If Auburn chooses to terminate Hugh Freeze without cause, they would owe him 75% of the remaining contract value. Below are the buyout amounts by year, reflecting what Auburn would owe if termination occurred at the end of each year:
- End of 2024: $20.3 million
- End of 2025: $13.8 million
- End of 2026: $7.3 million
- End of 2027: $3.25 million
Given that Auburn is already on the hook for significant buyout payments to Gus Malzahn and Bryan Harsin, the decision to fire Hugh Freeze should not be taken lightly. Adding another substantial buyout—up to $20.3 million if Freeze is fired after the 2024 season—would further strain Auburn’s finances.
The university must consider whether Freeze can turn things around, and if not, whether the cost of yet another buyout is justifiable, especially while still paying for previous coaching departures. Auburn may need to show more patience with Freeze, as continuous coaching changes could disrupt long-term program stability, both financially and in of on-field performance.
