Lane Kiffin Signs 10-Year Contract with Florida Atlantic, But How Long Will He Stay?

Lane Kiffin and Florida Atlantic have agreed to a 10-year contract keeping the coach through 2027. The news was announced a few hours before the Owls’ bowl game in their own backyard.

Florida Atlantic brass is understandably ecstatic about the long-term deal.

“This is further proof of FAU’s unbridled ambition,” FAU president John Kelly said.

And Kiffin appears to be living his best life down there, notching a school-record 10 wins with the 11th scheduled to come later tonight. The Owls, coming off three straight 3-9 years, are suddenly relevant on the college football landscape, all thanks to the charismatic new man in charge.

Kiffin’s previous deal paid him $950,000 annually — on the low-end of the spectrum especially considering his previous success. At 42, he’s said he is “at peace” with his current situation.

But there’s not a reasonable mind out there who believes this new piece of paper means he’ll be at Florida Atlantic long-term. The allure of bigger programs and money will continue to come calling. The offers will become more attractive if he strings 10-win years together.

There’s not a Power Five team out there that wouldn’t gladly pay his buyout to poach him away. FAU got a nice bit of PR today, but no real security.

That may be cynical. It’s also reality. So a bit of advice: enjoy the good times while they last. Tomorrow — or 2027 — isn’t guaranteed.