Florida State Hires Tony White as Defensive Coordinator

Florida State University has announced the hiring of new coordinators Gus Malzahn and Tony White, both of whom signed three-year contracts through February 2028. Malzahn's deal will compensate him $1.5 million in the first year, increasing to $2.5 million by the third year, along with various bonuses and allowances. White's contract starts at $1.5 million, with gradual increases, and includes provisions for offsetting any buyout owed to Nebraska, depending on his tenure and team performance in the College Football Playoff. Assistant coaches Terrance Knighton and Evan Cooper also signed contracts, with Knighton earning $550,000 in the first year and Cooper $300,000. The contracts were released following a public records request, and Malzahn's previous position at UCF did not involve a buyout. White's hiring follows his successful tenure at Nebraska, where he developed top defenses.