Mississippi State’s football program will see its assistant coaches command a combined $6.84 million in 2026, a figure that underscores the growing financial commitment to the sport at the university. The 13 assistants, two more than the previous season, will collectively earn that amount as the coaching staff expands.
Financial Landscape
At the top of the payroll sits Zach Arnett, whose $1.15 million salary makes him the highest‑paid assistant, a sum that reflects a $100,000 annual raise as his contract runs through 2028, up from his $3 million tenure as head coach.
Other notable contracts include offensive line coach Phil Loadholt, who earns $700,000 and will see his deal expire after the current season, while seven assistants—Jon Cooper, Corey Bell, Vincent Dancy and others—have secured extensions that keep them on the staff through 2027 without immediate pay bumps.
Evan Harvey, recently promoted to safeties coach, adds $150,000 to the mix despite lacking a formal contract, and the total headcount of 13 assistants marks a two‑person increase over the previous year.
The expanded roster and heightened compensation illustrate the program’s ambition to compete at a higher level, even as the university navigates budgetary constraints.