Billy Napier is proving to be an expensive problem for the Gators, no doubt about it! With a poor record of 12-16 over two seasons, fans are practically pushing him out to save the Gainesville program from crumbling any further. Napier has struggled to keep the team relevant due to injuries and a tough schedule, so firing him seems like an option for the Gators. But, it’s not as simple as it sounds—it comes with a hefty price tag.

Back in November 2021, the 45-year-old head coach signed a seven-year contract with a guaranteed payout of over $50 million. In his first year, he earned $7.1 million, and he gets a $100,000 raise every year he stays on. So, if you’re wondering how much it would cost to let him go, here’s the scoop.

Napier’s contract runs through January 31, 2029. If the Florida Gators decide to buy out his contract at the end of the month, they’ll owe him about $27.7 million. To be exact, it’s $27,996,875—about 85% of the remaining contract amount.

However, according to ESPN, Florida supporters have already raised the necessary funds for the buyout. They’re determined to end the losing streak, whatever the cost. Yet, when asked during Monday’s press conference if he thought he had a chance for a fourth season in Gainesville, Napier confidently replied, “100%.” Kind of funny, right?

But with such a huge amount at stake, Napier’s future in Florida remains uncertain. Whatever decision the Gators make, it’s bound to be a risky move.

Is Billy Napier’s seat getting hot?

Believe it or not, Napier’s deal comes with some pretty sweet perks: two cars (with insurance), a prime suite at home games with 16 tickets, and free flights on the university’s private jet. You can imagine the cost if Florida decides to fire him. Despite all they’re paying him, the school is considering letting him go because, once trust is lost, it’s tough to get back. Even former quarterback and commentator Greg McElroy thinks so. On his September 17th show, he said, “Is it today? Is it tomorrow? Is it the next day? Is it next week? It’s inevitable. It’s moving in that direction,” sounding confident about Napier’s firing.

And honestly, it does feel “inevitable.” The game against the Aggies was a disaster, ending in a 33-20 loss, and they were crushed by in-state rivals Miami Hurricanes with a 41-7 defeat. After all this, who wants Napier to stick around? There are already rumors about potential replacements like Lane Kiffin and Matt Rhule.

Now, the only thing left for the Gators’ management is to figure out how to cover the hefty buyout and let him go before 2028.