Michigan State implementing pay cuts, seven percent salary reductions to Mel Tucker, Tom Izzo

Welcome to 2020.

Athletic budgets across the country are in a downward trajectory. Why?

Well, sports aren’t in a good spot right now. Cuts are being made just about everywhere.

At Michigan State, it’s no different. The Spartans are trying to get ahead of the curve. On Thursday, Michigan State announced that football coach Mel Tucker and Tom Izzo would be receiving seven percent pay cuts.

The athletic director, Bill Beekman, is receiving a 10 percent salary reduction.

In a release, here’s Beekman:

“Although there is uncertainty about what the future holds, and impactful decisions are yet to be made, it’s safe to say that we will experience a significant reduction in revenue in the year ahead. I know this decision will impact staff members and their families, but the unfortunate reality is that we cannot make the budget reductions we’ll need to make without impacting our team. It’s part of a shared sacrifice that will benefit the entire athletic department, allowing us to remain student-focused and ensuring the health, safety and wellness of all within the department while navigating the challenges ahead.”

The salary cuts aren’t just for those at the top at the university, either. This is impacting everybody’s salary in the athletic department.

Tucker was hired in February to replace Mark Dantonio and signed a six-year contract for at least $5.5 million annually. Izzo’s total compensation package hits just over $4.19 million.

Michigan State is somewhat following Michigan here, as the Wolverines issued 10 percent salary cuts for their athletic director and a number of coaches — including Jim Harbaugh.