Texas Longhorns athletic director lands massive extension as SEC era continues to heat up

The University of Texas has now locked up athletic director Chris Del Conte through 2036 with a blockbuster contract extension. Del Conte's new deal is one of the 11-year, $38.8 million contract variety, pending Board of Regents approval.

Texas is proposing an 18.4 percent increase in guaranteed compensation for Del Conte who can also receive $5.5 million in incentives thru 2036.

His base salary will rise to $2.9 million in 2026 with structured annual raises ($100k/year) for the first three years followed by $150k annually through 2036. Furthermore, his performance-related incentives are set to escalate from $250k to as much as $600k by 2036.

The Board of Regents is expected to approve the deal.

Chris Del Conte's tenure has essentially redefined Texas athletics.

The Longhorns have won four Director's Cup titles in the last five years, recognizing the nation's top overall athletic program. Texas has won national titles in marquee and Olympic sports – including softball and men's and women's swimming and diving.

Del Conte was also a key cog in putting the wheels in motion and sealing the deal for Texas's move to the SEC. And once the Longhorns arrived, the university added eight SEC titles in year one.

“Much is given, much is expected… I appreciate the board of regents believes in me and my team," Del Conte said. "But we’re not out of the woods by any stretch.”

Board Chairman Kevin Eltife didn't hesitate when the Houston Chronicle asked his thoughts on Del Conte when news broke of the massive contract.

“Chris Del Conte is the best athletic director in the country."

Del Conte's management of NIL, conference realignment, and an ever-evolving college sports landscape makes this extension well-earned. The University of Texas is betting long-term on its guy and the architect on the Forty Acres might have jump started quite the resurgence in this new era.