Art Briles Hired as Head Coach at Division II Eastern New Mexico with $1M Buyout

Art Briles has been appointed as the new head football coach at Eastern New Mexico University, a Division II program. The university is set to officially announce the hiring soon, according to sources familiar with the situation.

Briles signed a three-year contract, which reportedly includes a buyout clause exceeding $1 million if he departs before the contract ends. This compensation package reflects the significant investment Eastern New Mexico is making in their football program.

Coaching Background and Career Highlights

Briles is a veteran coach with a career spanning college and international football. He led Baylor’s football team for eight seasons, from 2008 to 2015, before his dismissal following a sexual assault scandal within the program. During his tenure at Baylor, Briles led the Bears to two Big 12 Conference championships in 2013 and 2014.

Before Baylor, Briles served as head coach at the University of Houston from 2002 to 2007. His combined head coaching record at Baylor and Houston stands at 99 wins and 65 losses, demonstrating notable success in rebuilding those programs. He finished his run at Baylor with an impressive 32-7 record over the last three years.

Career Challenges and Recent Positions

Despite on-field success, Briles’ career has been overshadowed by controversies tied to his time at Baylor. This has led public and professional hesitancy toward his employment in major coaching roles. Several job offers, including positions in Canadian and American football, were withdrawn under public pressure, or Briles chose to resign.

Following his departure from Division I coaching, Briles remained active in football by working at the high school level and coaching overseas in Italy. His connection to Eastern New Mexico’s athletics director, Kevin Fite—who previously worked with Briles at Houston—likely influenced this latest hiring decision.

Eastern New Mexico’s acquisition of Briles is a notable development in Division II football, given his experience and past success. The sizeable buyout clause underscores the school’s commitment to this high-profile hire.