# Kirby Smart clarifies college football pay comments

> Georgia coach Kirby Smart explains players now earn more in college football.
- Title: Kirby Smart clarifies college football pay comments · OutKick
- Summary: Georgia coach Kirby Smart explains players now earn more in college football. Georgia coach Kirby Smart says players earning money in college sports is…
- Keywords: kirby smart, georgia bulldogs, college football, nil, transfer portal, sec, player pay, coaching, news, politics, Kirby, Smart
- Source: OutKick — https://foxnews.com/outkick-sports/kirby-smart-clarifies-comments-taking-shot-how-much-college-football-players-making
- Author: Ian Miller
- Published: 2026-11-02T00:00:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: kirby smart, georgia bulldogs, college football, nil, transfer portal, sec, player pay, coaching, news, politics
## Kirby Smart's comments on player pay
Georgia coach Kirby Smart says players now earn more in college football.
## Smart's injury concerns
Smart noted increased injuries after Georgia beat Florida 27-8.
## Smart's motivation quote
Smart said players make more than he did until he was 40.
## Smart's clarification
Smart called player pay 'awesome' and said it's not about whining.
## Smart's long-term view
Smart said earning power affects players' outlook on hard work.
## Roster limit impact
2025 House settlement limited rosters to 105 players.
## Smart's recruitment focus
Smart said coaches must find players unaffected by money.
## Smart's conclusion
Smart called the changes in college football 'a different day and age'.
## Key takeaway

Georgia coach Kirby Smart says players earning money in college sports is positive but not a motivation issue.