Auburn Extends DJ Durkin Through 2027

Auburn defensive coordinator DJ Durkin has signed a contract extension that increases his salary from $1.2 million in 2024 to $2.5 million in 2025, with an added annual $200,000 increase, making him one of the highest-paid assistants in college football. The contract extends Durkin's tenure through 2027, placing his compensation just behind Penn State's Jim Knowles, who earns $3.1 million per year, and matching LSU's Blake Baker among top earners. Durkin has led Auburn to a top-ranked defense in the SEC, finishing 28th nationally in points allowed, despite the team ending the season with a 5-7 record. The contract includes typical clauses for termination and mitigation, as well as performance-based bonuses. Durkin's past roles include defensive coordinator positions at Texas A&M, Ole Miss, and a controversial head coaching stint at Maryland.