The contract between Colorado State and new football coach Jim McElwain wasn't finalized until last Wednesday, and now Sean Duff of Coloradoan.com has the details. McElwain's five-year contract pays him $1.35 million in base salary plus benefits, although he'd have to pay CSU up to $5 million if he leaves before his contract runs out.
Duff explains how the situation plays out if McElwain leaves CSU:
McElwain would be on the hook for $5 million if it's in 2012, $4 million in 2013, on down to $1 million before the regular-season finale in 2016.
In addition, the contract states that Colorado State must pay at least $2 million in base salary to McElwain's staff plus a variety of other benefits.
After years as an assistant coach, including the past four years as offensive coordinator at Alabama, McElwain is getting his first chance to be a head coach with the Rams.
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