Jim McElwain Will Become Next Florida Head Coach

A person familiar with the search says Florida has hired Colorado State's Jim McElwain as its next football coach.

The person spoke to The Associated Press on Thursday on the condition of anonymity because the Gators have not announced details of their coaching search. The person says McElwain officially accepted the job Wednesday after working out deal to reduce a $7.5 million buyout.

ESPN first reported the hiring.

Florida athletic director Jeremy Foley and three of his top assistants spent hours at McElwain's home in Fort Collins, Colorado, on Tuesday and Wednesday. They left after negotiations failed to resolve the buyout. Florida had been told the buyout would not be a problem.

The 52-year-old McElwain replaces Will Muschamp, who was fired Nov. 16.

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