Bill O’Brien has done wonders at Penn State since taking over the Nittany Lions’ football program last year, but his long-term future may not be in Happy Valley.
O’Brien adjusted his contract with Penn State last summer, lowering the buyout in his deal if he decides to leave the program for the NFL, according to ESPN. His original contract contained an NFL buyout of $19.33 million, but Penn State agreed to drop that total to $6.48 million last year, making it much easier for O’Brien to make the jump if the pros come calling. However, O’Brien bolting to another school is far less likely now, as another college program would have to pay $11.08 million if they decided to pluck O’Brien away from Penn State.
O’Brien, who was an offensive assistant with the Patriots for five seasons, is a hot name on the NFL coaching radar right now. His offensive ingenuity in New England and ability to traverse a difficult situation at Penn State — not to mention managing a 15-9 record with a depleted roster — has made him an attractive options for teams looking for new leadership.
The Texans have already been linked to O’Brien for their opening, meanwhile the Redskins, Raiders, Vikings, Lions and Cowboys could all could be in the market for a new coach this offseason as well.
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