James Geoffrey Franklin, or simply James Franklin, is a former player and American college football coach. Born on February 2 in Langhorne, Pennsylvania, he played as a quarterback throughout his college years at East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania. Franklin’s longest coaching stint was with the Penn State Nittany Lions football team. He coached the team from 2014 to 2025, until Penn State fired him in October 2025.
In this article, we will delve deeper into James Franklin’s net worth in 2025.
What is James Franklin’s Net Worth in 2025?
James Franklin has an estimated net worth of $23 million.
Franklin’s net worth is derived from his earnings as a former quarterback and his incredible career as a football coach. His longest stint was with the Penn State Nittany Lions football team. Other sources of income include financial incentives and performance bonuses.
He is best known for his incredible career as the former head coach of the Penn State Nittany Lions football team. He took over from Jerry Sandusky, the former assistant coach, who was embroiled in a major scandal. Franklin, with his formidable skills and keen eye for talent, helped Penn State win major tournaments.
Additionally, he played quarterback during his college years and set 7 school records. Sports Illustrated named Franklin “National Player of the Week” that season.
What does James Franklin do for a living?
James Franklin is a former quarterback and head coach of the Penn State Nittany Lions football team.
On October 12, Penn State fired head coach Franklin after twelve seasons. He was fired from his job because the team wasn’t performing well under his leadership. He was hired in 2014 after Jerry Sandusky departed from the team. Franklin revived Penn State’s image with credible tournament wins.
Notably, Franklin had signed a ten-year contract with Penn State in 2021 worth up to $85 million. Penn State will have to cough up more than $49 million to Franklin per his ten-year agreement. (via ESPN)
James Franklin’s earnings explained – how does he make money?
James Franklin earns money from various professional pursuits.
Franklin’s primary source of income has been through his long and extensive career as a college football coach. In January, Penn State paid Vanderbilt $1.5 million to terminate his contract early.
Additionally, an extended coaching contract, coupled with performance bonuses, retention bonuses, and financial incentives, adds significantly to his income.
Furthermore, Franklin made money through deals with sports and apparel brands, such as Penn State’s long-standing deal with Nike. The former Penn State coach also earned through football camps, sporting events, and other promotional activities.
In 2021, James Franklin renewed a ten-year contract with Penn State worth up to $85 million. However, Penn State owes him $49 million in contractual penalties.
