How much is Sam Pittman's contract buyout? Arkansas HC's salary structure and future in CFB explored

Sam Pittman has had a rough year leading the Arkansas Razorbacks as they have lost their past six games after a 2-0 start. There has been speculation that he could be in the hot seat if the Razorbacks are unable to turn things around. Notably, Pittman is due $22.1 million over the next four years if he remains in place as Arkansas' head coach.

Alex Weber of On3 Sports broke down how the final four games of the Razorbacks' season could determine the amount Pittman is owed if he is not brought back:

"Pittman is due just 75% of that total if he’s fired and the team’s record since the start of the 2021 season is at or above .500. Right now, following the loss to Mississippi State, he’s 18-16. On the other hand, if Arkansas were to lose the next three games and he drops to sub-.500 since 2021, the buyout would then drop to just 50% of the total he’s owed. Got that? Let’s draw it out: With .500 or better record: 75% of a $22.1 million buyout = $16,575,000 With a below-.500 record: 50% of a $22.1 = $11,050,000"

Weber noted that the Razorbacks could wait to see if Pittman loses out to save some money:

"Winning games could be to his disadvantage. If Arkansas decides this week they’re ready to move on from Pittman regardless of how the year ends, they just have to wait for him to win one more game, thus guaranteeing the .500 record since he’d have 19 wins to 16 losses with just three games left. If he does that, the buyout is locked in. If he keeps losing and ends with a 2-10 season, that lower buyout figure is back on the table."

Finally, he noted that if the Razorbacks lose their next three games, Pittman could be fired before he has a chance to win the season finale and reach .500. While Arkansas is 18-16 under Pittman since he signed his extension, they are just 21-23 overall during his tenure.

What has Sam Pittman said about his future?

Sam Pittman held a press conference on Monday after firing offensive coordinator Dan Enos. He addressed his own future as well:

"I’m real confident that we can get it back to what is respectable plus for the state of Arkansas, and to be honest with you, that’s really all I’m worried about. I’m not worried about my job, I’m worried about the damn state of Arkansas and having them proud of our football team. And h**l, I’m not right now and I know they ain’t and I get it. But I’m the only one that can change it so we’re gonna work like hell to get that done." [h/t On3 Sports]

Check out Sam Pittman's full press conference below:

While Pittman's future is uncertain, he does not appear concerned with rumors of any potential departure. Instead, the Arizona Razorbacks coach is determined to turn things around on the field.