Pete Golding has emerged as one of college football’s most talked-about coaches after his recent promotion to head coach of the Ole Miss Rebels following Lane Kiffin’s departure to LSU. In this detailed profile, we explore his press conferences, personal life, faith, and earnings — all backed by the latest reports and insights.
Pete Golding Press Conference Highlights
Pete Golding has had significant media attention, especially around his transition from defensive coordinator to head coach of Ole Miss in late 2025. While an initial official press conference to introduce him as head coach was canceled at one point to keep the focus on the team, his media interactions have focused on leadership, family, and commitment to the program’s future.
In earlier public remarks, Golding discussed his reasons for moving from Alabama to Ole Miss, emphasizing family priorities, commitment to his team, and wanting to be a better husband and father — messages he reiterated to reporters.
Is Pete Golding Married? Family Life
Yes, Pete Golding is married. He and his wife Carolyn Golding share a strong personal and community presence:
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Wife: Carolyn Golding — A Mississippi native and Ole Miss graduate in accounting, later earning advanced degrees including a juris doctor.
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Children: The couple has three children — two sons, Braxton and Bentley, and a daughter, Bailey.
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The Golding family has been active in supporting the Ole Miss community; they donated $100,000 to the Patterson School Building Fund in 2024 to support academic growth.
Golding’s marriage and family have been featured in stories discussing his life choices, including how family considerations helped guide his career decisions.
Religion: Pete Golding’s Faith
Pete Golding is known to be a Christian, and his faith has been referenced in biographical profiles. This fits with his public persona where faith and family are presented as important guiding principles in his life and career.
While Golding does not often speak publicly about detailed religious beliefs in press conferences, his lifestyle and personal statements reflect Christian values and the role of faith in his decision-making both on and off the field.
What Is Pete Golding’s Salary? Earnings & Contract
Pete Golding’s compensation has risen dramatically over recent years:
As Defensive Coordinator
Before becoming head coach, Golding signed a lucrative extension as Ole Miss defensive coordinator, making him one of the highest-paid coordinators in college football:
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2025 salary: Approximately $2.55 million
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2026 salary: About $2.6 million
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2027 salary: About $2.7 million
(Based on multi-year contract extension details.)
Head Coach Salary
Upon his promotion to Ole Miss head coach in late 2025, Golding’s earnings increased significantly:
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Base salary in first season: Around $6.8 million
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With annual increases of $100,000, rising to roughly $7.2 million by 2030
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Additional incentives include bonuses for conference wins, postseason success, and Coach of the Year honors.
This deal underscores the substantial investment Ole Miss has made in securing Golding long-term.
Final Thoughts: Pete Golding’s Rise in College Football
Pete Golding’s journey from defensive back at Delta State to one of the most respected coaches in the SEC highlights a story of professional growth, family values, and personal conviction. Whether at a press conference, building a strong family foundation, living his faith, or commanding a top-tier salary, Golding represents a modern coaching figure balancing success on and off the field.
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