SEC commissioner Greg Sankey revealed his salary during his testimony in a Louisiana courtroom where a judge ruled LSU could field former professional football players this season.
During the hearing Thursday, Sept. 3, Sankey was asked about his salary and disclosed he made $4.8 million last year.
His revelation confirms he had the same amount of pay in 2025 as he did in 2024. USA TODAY Sports reported in February Sankey earned $4.8 million in compensation for calendar year 2024 −including $4.7 million base pay − which was up from $4.3 million in total compensation for 2023.
The SEC commissioner since 2015, Sankey received a contract extension in 2023 that keeps him in his role until 2028.
One of the most prominent people in college sports, Sankey
is believed to the highest-paid conference commissioner. The compensation for Big Ten's Tony Pettiti, who received a five-year contract extension in August, has not been disclosed. USA TODAY Sports reported in May 2025 that Petitti was credited with total compensation of $2.65 million in 2023, although he started the role in May.
Sankey's testimony came as part of former Mississippi football players Dae’Quan Wright and Zxavian Harris, who spent time with NFL teams over the summer, sought a temporary restraining order as they attempt to play for LSU.
Judge William Jorden of the 19th Judicial District Court ruled in favor of the players, granting LSU's and the plaintiffs' request for preliminary injunction that stops the SEC's initial attempt to bar the ex-pro athletes from returning to college sports. Earlier in the day, the SEC filed a lawsuit against LSU and coach Lane Kiffin for an injunction overruling the move.
The ruling comes two days before LSU kicks off the 2026 season against Clemson on Saturday, Sept. 5.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: What is Greg Sankey's salary? SEC commissioner reveal pay in court testimony
