Butch Jones secures his future at Arkansas State until 2029

In JONESBORO, Arkansas, Butch Jones, the head coach of Arkansas State University, has signed a contract extension that will keep him with the Red Wolves through the year 2029. This decision follows a notable turnaround in the team's performance, leading them to their first winning season in five years. Under Jones’s leadership, the Red Wolves have seen continuous improvement in their record over his four seasons, culminating in a 7-5 performance this year which qualifies them for their second consecutive bowl game. The athletic director, Jeff Purinton, praised Jones for his commitment to fostering a winning culture at Arkansas State, pointing to the improvement in the football program's trajectory. This season has been particularly significant; the Red Wolves have achieved five wins in the Sun Belt Conference, their highest number since 2019, and have consistently tied for second place in the West Division over the last two years. Butch Jones, who took the helm at Arkansas State after previous coaching stints at major universities including Tennessee, Cincinnati, and Central Michigan, has demonstrated his ability to revitalize the program. The last five years were challenging for the Red Wolves, struggling to find success on the field, but under Jones's guidance, there has been a palpable change in momentum and expectations. This extension not only ensures stability for the team but also reflects the university's faith in his leadership moving forward. As Arkansas State prepares for the upcoming bowl game, this contract extension solidifies Jones's role in shaping the future of the Red Wolves football program. With fans and alumni eagerly anticipating the team's performance, the expectation is that this momentum will carry into the next seasons, fostering a competitive spirit and continued growth in the program's achievements.