Lincoln Riley's 2023 USC Pay Tops $11.5 Million

USC head football coach Lincoln Riley earned over $11.5 million in total compensation for 2023, including a $10.2 million base salary, $100,000 in bonuses, $1.15 million in other compensation, and a $3.43 million housing loan from USC. His 2023 compensation was lower than the nearly $20 million received in 2022, which included a $4.5 million buyout paid to Oklahoma. Riley had a strong first season at USC, leading the team to an 11-3 record and coaching quarterback Caleb Williams to a Heisman Trophy, but the team's performance declined to 8-5 in 2023 and 7-6 in 2024. USC tax filings also disclosed significant payouts, including $3 million to athletic director Jennifer Cohen and continued payments to former coach Clay Helton. As Riley enters 2025, expectations remain high for the football program. The university continues to invest heavily in its football operations and staff.