Northwestern Football Receives Massive $35M Gift

Northwestern football has received another major financial boost as the Wildcats continue investing heavily in the program’s future.

The family of Liz and Dick Uihlein has committed a $35 million gift to Northwestern football, according to ESPN’s Pete Thamel. The money will be dished out over the next three years.

The Wildcats are coming off a 7-6 season in 2025, including a 4-5 record in Big Ten play. Head coach David Braun is entering his fourth season after leading Northwestern to bowl appearances in two of his first three seasons.

Braun has compiled a 19-19 record since taking over the program ahead of the 2023 season. Northwestern also made a major addition to its coaching staff this offseason by hiring Chip Kelly as offensive coordinator.

With a new stadium, an experienced offensive coordinator and $35 million in additional funding coming over the next three years, the Wildcats are making a major commitment toward competing in the Big Ten.

Northwestern opens its 2026 season against South Dakota State on September 5 before beginning Big Ten play against Indiana on September 25.