Eliah “Eli” Drinkwitz is a prominent American college football coach, currently serving as the head coach of the Missouri Tigers. Known for his offensive acumen and ability to transform programs, Drinkwitz has quickly become one of the most respected young coaches in the SEC, leading Missouri to back-to-back 10-win seasons in 2023 and 2024.
Quick Facts of Eliah Drinkwitz
| Full Name | Eliah Drinkwitz |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | April 12, 1983 |
| Place of Birth | Norman, Oklahoma, USA |
| Age | 42 |
| Alma Mater | Arkansas Tech University (2004) |
| Current Position | Head Coach, Missouri Tigers |
| Conference | SEC |
| Overall Head Coaching Record | 56–27 (.675) |
| Annual Salary | $9 million (2025) |
| Championships | 1 Sun Belt (2019), 1 Sun Belt East Division (2019) |
| Awards | SEC Coach of the Year (2023) |
| Net Worth | $15–20 million (2025) |
Early Life and Education
Drinkwitz was born in Norman, Oklahoma, to Jerry and Susie Drinkwitz. The family moved to Alma, Arkansas when he was one, where he grew up playing football and developed his passion for coaching. He played for the Alma Airedales, earning All-State and All-Conference honors, and later graduated with a bachelor’s degree in education from Arkansas Tech University in 2004. Drinkwitz and his wife, Lindsey, have four daughters.
Coaching Career
Early Career
- Began as an assistant at Alma High School (AR) in 2005 and Springdale HS (AR) as offensive coordinator from 2006–2009.
- Moved to Auburn University in 2009 as a quality control coach, part of the staff that won the 2010 National Championship.
Arkansas State (2012–2013)
- Served as running backs coach and co-offensive coordinator.
- Gained experience under head coach Gus Malzahn, helping to shape the offense.
Boise State (2014–2015)
- Tight ends coach in 2014, promoted to offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach in 2015.
NC State (2016–2018)
- Offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach.
- Won two bowl games and finished #23 in the AP Poll in 2017.
Appalachian State (2019)
- Hired as head coach, leading the team to a 12–1 record and a Sun Belt Championship.
- Left before the bowl game to join Missouri.
Missouri Tigers (2020–Present)
- Hired on December 9, 2019, replacing Barry Odom.
- First season: 5–5, including a win over defending national champion LSU.
- 2021–2022: consecutive 6–6 seasons, with bowl appearances.
- 2023: 10–2 regular season, SEC record 6–2, won Cotton Bowl vs. Ohio State 14–3.
- 2024: 10–3, including Music City Bowl victory over Iowa.
- Signed a contract extension through 2029 with $9 million annual salary (2025), rising to $9.25 million in 2026.
Net Worth and Salary
- Net Worth (2025): $15–20 million, including coaching earnings, retention bonuses, and brand deals.
- Career earnings since 2020 at Missouri: over $46 million.
- Signed a $5 million endorsement with Powerade in 2025.
- Salary growth: $4 million (2020) → $6 million (2023) → $9 million (2025).
Personal Life and Legacy
- Married to Lindsey Drinkwitz, with four daughters.
- Known for off-field philanthropy, donating significant sums to the Missouri football program and community initiatives.
- Recognized as one of the most promising young coaches in college football, combining strategic acumen with recruiting skill and leadership.
Eliah Drinkwitz’s rapid rise from high school assistant to SEC powerhouse coach reflects his dedication, vision, and ability to build winning programs. With consecutive 10-win seasons at Missouri and growing off-field influence, he is positioned as one of the most influential coaches in college football today.
