Jake Dickert is staying in Winston-Salem.
In just his second season as Wake Forest’s head coach, Dickert has pushed the Demon Deacons to the brink of the College Football Playoff and put them on track for an ACC Championship appearance. His success at the smaller Power Four school has naturally drawn attention, with speculation that a bigger program could be on the way.
But Wake Forest isn’t taking any chances, announcing that Dickert signed a long-term contract extension Thursday.
Ben Portnoy of FOX Sports reported earlier this week that Wake Forest and Dickert were deep in talks about a major expansion this in return would significantly strengthen its NIL resources and staff pool.
Wake Forest hired Dickert after four seasons at Washington State, where he showed he could create a winner amid considerable uncertainty. As the Pac-12 unfolded, the Cougars defeated rival Washington in the Apple Cup, further cementing Dickert’s reputation as a coach capable of succeeding in difficult circumstances. The Demon Deacons came calling, committing to invest in their football program, including its facilities.
And now they’re doubling down, investing even more in their coach.
Dickert led Wake Forest to a 9-4 record and a win over Mississippi State in the Duke’s Mayo Bowl in 2025. He has the Demon Deacons off to an impressive 8-1 start this season, with their only loss coming at previously ranked No. 1 Miami.
Currently No. 13 in the College Football Playoff rankings, the Demon Deacons are also No. 11 in the AP and Coaches polls with games remaining against SMU, Georgia Tech and Duke.
Get more from College Football Follow your favorites to get information about games, news and more
