Columbia News

The University of Missouri Board of Curators has approved a contract extension for Eliah Drinkwitz, the head coach of Mizzou football. The extension will keep Drinkwitz with the Tigers through the 2029 season. Alongside this, an enhanced salary pool for assistant coaches and support staff has been announced by Mizzou Director of Athletics Laird Veatch.

Drinkwitz is entering his sixth season at Mizzou and was named the 2023 Southeastern Conference Coach of the Year. Under his leadership, the team has achieved back-to-back double-digit win seasons, a feat accomplished only three times in program history. He holds a record of 38-24 overall and has set a new benchmark with a home win percentage record for Mizzou.

"I'm incredibly grateful for the continued belief in our vision for Mizzou Football," Drinkwitz said. "The Board of Curators, President Choi, Laird Veatch and our donors and fans have shown a deep commitment to building a championship-caliber program."

Drinkwitz's achievements include leading Mizzou to significant victories over Ohio State in the 2023 Cotton Bowl and Iowa in the 2024 Music City Bowl. His efforts have also earned him recognition on the 2025 Dodd Trophy Preseason Watch List.

Veatch expressed optimism about Drinkwitz's future with Mizzou: "This extension, along with increased investment in our coaching and support staff, reflects our commitment to sustaining success at the highest level."

University officials including Todd Graves and Bob Blitz praised Drinkwitz's leadership qualities and contributions to elevating Mizzou Football within the SEC. University President Mun Choi emphasized that "Coach Drinkwitz is a transformational leader with a proven record of success in the SEC."

Under Drinkwitz's guidance, several players have earned all-conference honors or been selected in NFL drafts. The Tigers' performance last season included achieving their first perfect home record since 2010.

Mizzou will start its 2025 season on August 28 against Central Arkansas at Memorial Stadium.

For more information on Missouri Athletics, visit MUTigers.com or follow their social media channels.