The University of Utah announced on Monday that defensive coordinator Morgan Scalley has been officially named as the successor to longtime football coach Kyle Whittingham. Scalley's contract stipulates that he will become the school's next coach whenever Whittingham decides to retire.

Under the terms of the agreement, Scalley will receive a starting salary of at least $5 million per year if he is elevated to the head coaching position at the end of the 2024 season. His salary will increase by $100,000 each subsequent year, reaching a maximum of $5.4 million after January 16, 2028.

Scalley, who was a star player at the university, is entering his 17th season on the Utah staff. In an interview with ESPN, Scalley expressed his deep connection to the program, saying, "Obviously, this is a program that's always meant the world to me. I played here, grew up going to games here. I love this program and where it's headed, and I have a lot of respect for the coaches that have made it what it is."

Although no definitive retirement date has been set for Whittingham, who turns 65 in November, the formalization of Scalley as the next Utah coach solidifies his position within the program. This marks the second time that athletic director Mark Harlan has designated Scalley as the successor. The initial appointment was rescinded in July 2020 following an investigation into his use of a racial slur in a text message seven years prior.

The outside investigation conducted by a law firm involved interviews with 35 individuals, most of whom were former players. The majority expressed surprise at the reports and had a positive relationship with Scalley. As part of his return to the staff, Scalley has undergone regular diversity and inclusion education.

Scalley's reputation as one of the top coordinators in the country has drawn interest from other programs, including USC, Texas, Oregon, and Florida. However, he has chosen to remain loyal to Utah, citing his deep roots in Salt Lake City and his belief in the program's ability to succeed at a high level.

Under Scalley's leadership as defensive coordinator, Utah has consistently boasted one of the top defenses in the country. In 2019, he guided the team to the No. 2 total defense ranking. The Utes have also claimed the Pac-12's top rush defense five times in the past eight years.

Looking ahead, Scalley sees great potential for the Utah program, envisioning the possibility of winning a national title. He emphasized the team's recruiting abilities, particularly in terms of attracting local linemen, while also noting their success in recruiting skill players from Texas, Florida, and California. Scalley is confident in the passionate fan base and the potential for success in Salt Lake City.

With eight starters returning on a defense that finished in the top 15 in total defense last season, Utah is considered a favorite to win the Big 12 in 2024. The program's commitment to Scalley as the future head coach signals the university's confidence in his leadership and vision for the team.

As Scalley embarks on this new chapter, he expressed his gratitude to President Taylor Randall, Athletic Director Mark Harlan, and Head Coach Kyle Whittingham for their support and belief in him. The University of Utah looks forward to the continued success of the football program under Scalley's guidance as they strive for greatness on the field.