Northwestern University extends coach David Braun through 2031

Northwestern University has announced a contract extension for head football coach David Braun, keeping him at the helm of the Wildcats through the 2031 season. The extension follows Braun’s successful tenure since taking over the program in 2023.

Since becoming the permanent head coach, Braun has achieved a 20-19 record and led the team to two bowl victories. His accomplishments include being named the 2023 consensus Big Ten Coach of the Year and receiving the inaugural Paul ‘Bear’ Bryant Newcomer Coach of the Year Award. He is the first coach in the program's 120-year history to secure bowl bids in two of his first three seasons.

Athletics Vice President Mark Jackson praised Braun’s leadership, noting his ability to recruit high-character student-athletes and maintain competitiveness within the Big Ten. The extension comes as the university prepares for the opening of the new Ryan Field in the coming weeks.