
Texas Tech Red Raiders’ offensive coordinator Zach Kittley has reportedly declined a massive $3 million annual offer from the LSU Tigers. The offer, aimed at luring Kittley away to Baton Rouge, was one of the most lucrative contracts ever extended to a non-head coach in recent years. Sources close to the negotiations say the deal would have made him one of the highest-paid assistant coaches in the country. However, in a move that reflects loyalty and long-term vision, Kittley has chosen to remain in Lubbock, solidifying his commitment to the Red Raiders’ program.
Kittley, who has garnered national recognition for transforming Texas Tech’s offense into one of the most dynamic in the Big 12, was seen as a key piece in LSU’s push to revamp their play-calling and offensive identity. Under his guidance, Texas Tech saw a significant rise in total offense, with breakout performances from players like sophomore quarterback Chase Donovan, who threw for over 3,800 yards last season. His innovative schemes and fast-paced system have drawn comparisons to some of the elite offensive minds in both college and professional football.
LSU’s interest in Kittley came after a season marked by inconsistency and underperformance on the offensive side of the ball. With head coach Brian Kelly under pressure to return the Tigers to national prominence, bringing in a proven offensive architect like Kittley was seen as a potential game-changer. According to multiple insiders, the Tigers’ administration was willing to offer not just a record salary, but also creative freedom and full control over the offensive staff—an offer rarely extended to coordinators.
Despite the glittering offer and the prestige associated with coaching in the SEC, Kittley’s decision appears to be rooted in unfinished business. Sources close to him say he sees Texas Tech as a sleeping giant on the national stage and believes the team is only a few key wins away from becoming a perennial top-10 program. He has also developed strong relationships with players and staff and sees continuity as a critical ingredient in the program’s development. “Coach Kittley has been like a father figure to a lot of us,” said Red Raiders wide receiver Jaden Wallace. “Him staying means everything. It tells us he believes in what we’re building.”
The decision has been met with praise and relief from Texas Tech fans and boosters, many of whom feared the program would lose its offensive mastermind just as it was starting to gain momentum. In a statement released Thursday evening, athletic director Kirby Hocutt expressed his appreciation for Kittley’s commitment, saying, “Zach is a Red Raider through and through. His loyalty and belief in our vision speak volumes about his character. We are beyond thrilled he’s staying in Lubbock.”
Kittley’s choice also has significant implications for the recruiting trail. With several high-profile offensive prospects considering Texas Tech, his return signals continuity and stability. Quarterback recruit Malik Stinson, a 4-star talent from Houston, posted on X (formerly Twitter), “Coach K staying? Say less. #GunsUp,” hinting that Kittley’s presence could influence his final decision. For a program striving to rise from the middle of the pack in the Big 12, retaining Kittley could prove to be a turning point.
Only time will tell whether Kittley’s bet on Texas Tech will pay off, but for now, his refusal to chase a bigger paycheck is being celebrated as a rare show of loyalty in a business dominated by money and movement. His decision echoes that of coaches like Chris Petersen, who once turned down multiple Power Five offers to continue building at Boise State. With a high-powered offense returning and renewed belief in the coaching staff, the Red Raiders head into the new season with confidence, clarity, and a proven leader who believes the best is yet to come.
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