In a significant development for college football, Jedd Fisch, former head coach of the Arizona Wildcats, has officially accepted the position as the head coach of the Washington Huskies, confirmed by the university on Sunday.
Transitioning Leadership: Jedd Fisch Move to Washington
The news, first reported by Jason Scheer of 247 Sports, reveals that Fisch underwent an interview with Washington on Saturday afternoon, culminating in the finalization of the deal on Sunday. The lucrative seven-year contract is said to be valued at over $50 million, with an annual salary of $7.75 million.
Arizona Triumphs: Fisch’s Legacy
Jedd Fisch tenure at Arizona culminated in a remarkable Alamo Bowl victory, capping off a stellar 9-3 regular season and marking the Wildcats’ return to postseason play for the first time since 2017. Notably, the 2023 season marked Arizona’s fourth 10-win season in school history, securing a No. 11 ranking, the program’s best finish in 25 years. The Wildcats closed the season on a seven-game winning streak, the longest since 1998.
Revitalizing Arizona: Fisch’s Coaching Journey
Arriving in Tucson amidst a challenging period, Fisch orchestrated a remarkable turnaround for the Wildcats. After a challenging 1-11 start in his first year, he improved to a 5-7 record in 2022, showcasing his ability to reshape the program’s fortunes.
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Arizona initially hired Fisch in December 2020 on a five-year deal, later extending his contract through 2027. The $16.3 million deal, signed in December 2022, included substantial salary and bonuses, with Fisch set to earn progressively higher amounts in the coming years.
Seattle Homecoming: Fisch’s Coaching Background
Jedd Fisch return to Seattle holds special significance as he previously served as the quarterbacks coach for the Seattle Seahawks in 2010 under Pete Carroll’s staff. Additionally, he contributed to Jim Harbaugh’s staff at Michigan in the Big Ten from 2015-16.
Before joining Arizona, Fisch had a brief stint with the New England Patriots as quarterbacks coach in 2020, following his role as an assistant with the Los Angeles Rams under head coach Sean McVay. Although he had previously served as interim head coach at UCLA during part of the 2017 season, the Washington Huskies’ leadership marks his first permanent head coaching position in college or the pros.
Washington’s Championship Aspirations
Jedd Fisch steps into a program that made a notable appearance in the national championship game this season, falling short against Michigan. His predecessor, Kalen DaBoer, departed to lead the Alabama Crimson Tide following the retirement of the legendary Nick Saban.
Jedd Fisch’s arrival in Washington ushers in a new era for the Huskies, bringing with him a track record of success and a commitment to building on the program’s achievements. As the head coach, Fisch aims to continue the legacy of excellence at Washington.
