Tom Herman, once known for commanding multi‑million‑dollar contracts as a college football head coach, has resurfaced in a modest capacity at Florida State University.
The former Texas Longhorns and Houston Cougars coach is now listed as an OPS employee, earning a mere $25 per hour to support the program’s defensive schemes.
From Paycheck to Paycheck: A Sudden Shift
Herman’s résumé reads like a who’s who of modern college football. He led the Texas Longhorns from 2017 to 2021 after a five‑year, $28.75 million deal, and before that steered the Houston Cougars to a $2.8 million annual salary following a 2015 extension.
His stint at Florida Atlantic University ended in November 2024, when he was dismissed after a brief tenure that paid a base of $750,000, with potential earnings climbing to $1.5 million by the fifth year. The termination came with a reported buyout near $4 million.
At Florida State, Herman will work closely with the defensive coordinator, helping to stress‑test offensive ideas against the Seminoles’ defense. The role, he says, lets him step back from the relentless pressure of running an entire team while still contributing to the game’s strategic depth.
The move has sparked conversation among fans and analysts alike, who note the stark contrast between Herman’s former earnings and his current hourly rate. Yet for Herman, the position offers a chance to stay involved in the sport he loves without the burdens of headline‑making expectations.