EUGENE -- Mario Cristobal will earn $2.5 million annually as part of a five-year deal as Oregon's new head coach, according to a memorandum of understanding released by the university Friday.



Cristobal was promoted Friday to head coach following Willie Taggart's departure to Florida State earlier this week.

Taggart left after one season, and to guard against another quick departure, UO installed hefty financial incentives for Cristobal, 47, to stay in Eugene long-term.

Cristobal would owe a buyout of $10 million if he leaves before Jan. 31, 2019. The buyout decreases by $2 million each following year left on the deal, down to $2 million should he leave before Jan. 31, 2023, when his contract expires.

During his introduction as head coach Friday in UO's Hatfield-Dowlin Complex, Cristobal -- a Miami native -- brushed off any potential concerns about his long-term commitment, saying UO would have to "drag me away kicking and screaming," and adding that he wanted his commitment put into writing in his contract to limit "chatter" about his focus on Oregon.



Cristobal served as Oregon's co-offensive coordinator and offensive line coach in 2017. As head coach, he will be eligible for up to $1.575 million in performance incentives.



-- Andrew Greif

agreif@oregonian.com