As of August 2025, estimates of Curt Cignetti's net worth range from $6 million to $15 million. However, a more straightforward calculation based on his Indiana University contract suggests a significantly higher figure.

Salary and Contract Details

In November 2024, Cignetti signed an eight-year contract extension with Indiana University that runs through November 30, 2032. The deal has an average annual compensation of $8 million, plus a $1 million annual retention bonus.

Here's a breakdown of his annual compensation, as detailed in his contract:

• Year 1 (Dec. 1, 2024 to Nov. 30, 2025): $8.3 million
• Year 2 (Dec. 1, 2025 to Nov. 30, 2026): $8.5 million
• Year 3 (Dec. 1, 2026 to Nov. 30, 2027): $8.7 million
• Year 4 (Dec. 1, 2027 to Nov. 30, 2028): $8.9 million
• Year 5 (Dec. 1, 2028 to Nov. 30, 2029): $9.1 million
• Year 6 (Dec. 1, 2029 to Nov. 30, 2030): $9.3 million
• Year 7 (Dec. 1, 2030 to Nov. 30, 2031): $9.5 million
• Year 8 (Dec. 1, 2031 to Nov. 30, 2032): $9.7 million

The contract includes a $500,000 base salary, a $1 million annual retention bonus, and additional income from outside marketing and promotional activities. The annual retention bonus is paid each Nov. 30 that Cignetti remains the head coach at Indiana.

Additional Incentives and Bonuses

Cignetti's contract also includes potential bonuses for achieving specific goals:

• Bowl Appearance (Non-CFP): \$200,000
• Bowl Win (Non-CFP): An additional $50,000
• CFP First Round Appearance: \$500,000
• CFP Quarterfinal Appearance: \$600,000
• CFP Semifinal Appearance: \$700,000
• CFP National Runner-Up: \$1,000,000
• CFP National Championship: \$2,000,000
• Winning five conference games: $100,000
• Finishing in the top six of the Big Ten: $250,000
• Finishing second in the Big Ten: $500,000
• Winning the Big Ten conference: $1 million

These bonuses are not cumulative; the highest achieved bonus is the only one awarded.

Career Earnings

Before arriving at Indiana, Cignetti's salary at James Madison University (JMU) was significantly lower. In 2022, he earned $621,008, and in 2023, his salary was $677,311. His initial contract with Indiana was valued at $4.5 million per year.

Net Worth Calculation

Based on his eight-year contract with Indiana, Cignetti's contract is worth approximately $72 million in total compensation. Factoring in his previous earnings, endorsement deals, and other potential income sources, his net worth could be substantial.

Buyout Clause

Cignetti's contract includes a significant buyout clause if he resigns before the end of his term:

• Dec. 1, 2024 - Nov. 30, 2025: $13 million
• Dec. 1, 2025 - Nov. 30, 2026: $10 million
• Dec. 1, 2026 - Nov. 30, 2027: $9 million
• Dec. 1, 2027 - Nov. 30, 2028: $8 million
• Dec. 1, 2028 - Nov. 30, 2029: $6 million
• Dec. 1, 2029 - Nov. 30, 2030: $3 million
• Dec. 1, 2030 - Nov. 30, 2031: $3 million
• Dec. 1, 2031 - Nov. 30, 2032: $1 million

If Indiana terminates Cignetti's employment without cause, the university would owe him 85% of his remaining salary.

Impact on Indiana Football

Cignetti's arrival at Indiana has been transformative. He has revitalized the football program, leading the Hoosiers to their first-ever 10-0 start in school history in 2024 and a College Football Playoff appearance. The university has demonstrated its commitment to the program by significantly increasing the salary pool for on-field staff and support, allocating $11 million annually at Cignetti's discretion.