Clark Lea signs contract extension with Vanderbilt

Vanderbilt head coach Clark Lea signed an extension with the school to lock into a long term deal with the football program.

Lea joined the school in 2021 after three years as the defensive coordinator with Notre Dame. So far, he’s just 7-17 through one of the bigger rebuilding projects in college football.

But, there’s been substantial progress in two years for Lea and the Commodores.

Lea led Vanderbilt to a 5-7 record last season, just one win shy of bowl eligibility. It was a big improvement from his 2-10 season during his first year.

Vanderbilt had the No. 55 overall recruiting class in the 2023 cycle, per the On3 Industry Rating. In 2024, Vanderbilt is already at No. 41 under Lea.

Moving forward, Vanderbilt could be on a steady climb upward based on what he’s done so far.

“Vanderbilt is home, it is such an honor for me to lead our football program,” Lea said in a statement. “The only way that we accomplish the mission we have set forth for Vanderbilt Football is with the vision and support from Chancellor Diermeier and (athletic director) Candice (Storey) Lee. 

“To have them acknowledge the progress we’ve made to this point, and to commit to seeing us push further on our journey means everything to me. Like everyone who is a part of our team, I will work to earn it every day, and recognize the great responsibility I have with the incredible opportunity and support I’ve been given. I also want to thank the members of our program, both student-athletes and staff. Their hard work and sacrifice is what allows for progress in our quest to build a program that makes all of Vanderbilt and Nashville proud.”

Lee also released a statement on the Lea extension.

“I’m thrilled with our football program’s development on and off of the field under Clark Lea’s leadership,” Lee said. “He is relentless in his commitment to build a foundation that yields sustainable success. He approaches each day with the pride of an alumnus who personally understands the opportunity that lies before us, and the determination of a coach and leader who has the vision to fulfill it. Coach Lea shares our desire to be great at everything we do.

“I’m excited to see what comes next for this program and gratified Coach Lea will continue leading the way.”

The length and terms of the extension were not revealed in the school’s release.