NC State would owe Dave Doeren more than $9.75 million if it fires him without cause before Jan. 1, 2027. His total 2026 compensation is $6.375 million before bonuses, and the buyout is set at $3.25 million per year for the rest of his contract.
Doeren’s five-year deal is worth $28.1 million. Its initial buyout was $15.7 million when he signed a new extension in 2024; the buyout does not decline if he remains in Raleigh. NC State is 1-2 in 2026 after a Week 3 fumble in its end zone was recovered by Vanderbilt for a touchdown.
The deal pays $50,000 for an eight-win season, rising to $250,000 for 12 wins; $100,000 for an ACC Championship Game appearance and $200,000 for an ACC title; and bowl and College Football Playoff incentives, including $500,000 for winning the national championship. Graduation-rate bonuses range from $25,000 to $100,000 and can be earned yearly and every four-year period. Perks include two cars or a $15,000 annual allowance, tickets and a country-club membership.
