It’s official: Tom Allen is leaving Penn State after one season as defensive coordinator for the same position at Clemson, and we also know how much he will be making there.
Per a report by Matt Zenitz of 247Sports, Allen is set to make $2 million annually over the next three seasons.
Clemson and Tom Allen have finalized a three-year deal worth $2 million annually to make him Clemson’s new defensive coordinator, a source tells @CBSSports/@247Sports.
A sizable jump up money-wise, though it’s worth noting that family considerations very much factored into the… https://t.co/0HrGeDHbL1
— Matt Zenitz (@mzenitz) January 14, 2025
This is slightly more than he made at Penn State, where his salary was reported to be $1.5 million annually (starting salary) over three years.
Was the increased salary a big reason for Allen’s move to Clemson? Maybe. Maybe not. But Allen is making more money, and he specifically cited in his farewell address that family was another reason he decided to make the move to Clemson.
Photo by Matt Lynch, Nittany Sports Now
“I’m thankful for the opportunity that Coach (Dabo) Swinney has given me to lead the defense. I have admired him from afar for years and look forward to working for him and with his defensive staff. I remain incredibly grateful for the opportunity James Franklin gave me to be part of Penn State football, a championship-caliber program in every respect that will continue to compete at the highest level. I wish PSU nothing but the best and loved my time there.”
“My family is very important to me and this move provides us the unique opportunity of living close to our daughters. Our children have made countless sacrifices throughout the years and the coaching profession and this move brings us together.”
“I can’t wait to get to work with this Clemson staff and team and their commitment to the ‘Best is the Standard.’
Penn State now begins its third search for a defensive coordinator in the last four seasons. Who will their next guy be? We shall see.
PSU’s first game of the 2025 season is Aug. 30 against Nevada at Beaver Stadium.
More must-reads:
Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!