Northwestern extends football coach David Braun’s contract through the 2031 season

Northwestern has extended coach David Braun’s contract through the 2031 season. This decision was announced on Thursday. The school did not disclose the financial terms of the agreement. Braun is currently in his fourth season at Northwestern and has a record of 20-19 heading into this Saturday’s game against Colorado. The Wildcats finished the previous season with a 7-6 record, earning a berth in the GameAbove Sports Bowl, where they defeated Central Michigan.

Northwestern’s vice president for athletics and recreation, Mark Jackson, praised Braun in a statement, highlighting his ability to recruit high-character student-athletes who align with the university’s academic environment and competitive conference. Braun joined Northwestern as a defensive coordinator in January 2023, succeeding Pat Fitzgerald, who was fired following a hazing scandal.

He was later named interim head coach. Braun’s record improved under his leadership, with an 8-5 mark in 2023 after a 1-11 season the previous year. Despite a 4-8 record in 2024, Northwestern secured bowl eligibility last season. Braun opened the 2026 season with a victory over South Dakota State, 34-18. In his statement, Braun expressed his honor at leading a prestigious football program at an institution that values excellence, character, and providing a transformative experience for student-athletes both on and off the field.

Prior to Northwestern, Braun served as a defensive coordinator in the Championship Subdivision at North Dakota State, where the team won two titles during his tenure.