Auburn, AL โ Auburn Universityโs Athletic Department has officially announced the hiring of JamesโฏFranklin as the new head coach of the Auburn Tigers football program. Franklin, 53, arrives after an 11-year tenure as head coach at Penn State, where he compiled a 77โ36 record and led the Nittany Lions to multiple Big Ten championships and playoff appearances.
Auburn Athletic Director said, โJames Franklin is a proven leader with a pedigree of success at the highest level of college football. His ability to recruit top talent, develop players, and build a winning culture aligns perfectly with Auburnโs vision moving forward.โ
Franklinโs contract is reportedly set for six years, with an annual salary in the range of $8 million, and includes performance-based incentives tied to conference titles and College Football Playoff appearances.
Proven Track Record
Franklin turned around the Penn State program following his 2014 arrival, ending a postseason ban and establishing consistent topโ10 finishes, including two playoff seasons. He led Penn State to a Big Ten championship in 2016 and guided the Nittany Lions to deeper playoff runs in 2021 and 2024
What Franklin Brings to Auburn
Consistent high-level recruiting, often landing top classes nationally, Player development with several NFL draftees under his guidance, Experience navigating powerhouse conferences and highโpressure environments
Franklinโs Reaction
At a press conference earlier today, Franklin said: โI am honored and humbled to lead Auburn football. Itโs a program with rich tradition, passionate fans, and a deep commitment to excellence. I look forward to working with our players, staff, and community to build something special.โ
He added that his first priorities include assembling a strong coaching staff, evaluating returning players, and preparing for the upcoming season, beginning August 1st with fall camp.
Next Steps for Auburn
Franklinโs arrival also signals the start of a reinvestment in football operations, with plans for updated facilities and enhanced support staff. Auburn is expected to announce key assistant coaches in the coming weeks, with recruiting and spring evaluation as immediate priorities.
