Coach Mike Elko in Heated Dispute with AD Trev Alberts Over Unpaid Salary and Bonuses
In a stunning development that’s sending shockwaves through the college football world, Texas A&M head football coach Mike Elko is reportedly locked in a serious, behind-the-scenes battle with Athletic Director Trev Alberts over allegations of unpaid salary components and performance bonuses. Multiple sources close to the situation describe the relationship between the two as “fractured” and “on the brink.”
Elko, who took over as head coach following the firing of Jimbo Fisher, led the Aggies to a surprisingly strong 9-3 record in his first season — including a top-15 finish and a dominant bowl victory that reignited hope among the fan base. According to insiders familiar with Elko’s contract, those achievements triggered a series of bonuses tied to win totals, academic performance benchmarks, and postseason appearances — bonuses that, to date, have reportedly not been paid.
Tensions began simmering in early March when Elko’s legal team sent a formal letter of concern to the university’s athletic department, citing “material breach of contract” and requesting immediate resolution. Trev Alberts, who was appointed AD earlier this year amidst sweeping administrative changes, is said to be challenging the timing and criteria used to calculate those bonuses — particularly the bowl incentive, which was linked to a “New Year’s Six-equivalent” clause.
“The situation is real, and it’s escalating quickly,” a senior department source stated under condition of anonymity. “Coach Elko feels betrayed. He fulfilled his part of the deal, and now he’s being met with red tape and re-interpretations of what’s clearly spelled out in black and white.”
Elko, known for his intense focus and no-nonsense leadership style, has reportedly grown increasingly frustrated over the lack of transparency from Alberts’ office. Several boosters have been quietly lobbying for resolution, fearing that the dispute could jeopardize recruiting momentum and stir locker room unrest. At least two high-profile recruits have already asked for clarification about Elko’s future before committing.
A closed-door meeting held last Friday between Elko, Alberts, and university counsel failed to produce any meaningful resolution. While public statements from both sides remain diplomatic, the silence is deafening. “It’s a contractual matter, and we are actively engaged in conversations,” was all the university offered in response to media inquiries.
Behind the scenes, the power struggle appears to be deeper than just financials. Sources suggest a broader philosophical clash between Elko’s vision of a high-autonomy football operation and Alberts’ tighter fiscal oversight may be fueling the impasse.
As of now, Elko continues to lead spring practices, but his body language has changed, according to team insiders. “He’s all business,” one player said. “But you can feel the tension. It’s like we’re one headline away from chaos.”
With the 2025 season approaching and expectations sky-high, the Aggies must act swiftly. Whether this internal standoff ends in reconciliation or resignation remains to be seen — but one thing is certain: the battle between Coach Elko and AD Trev Alberts is real, raw, and far from over.
