Kirk Ferentz has decided to remain at Iowa as head football coach and will not continue to pursue a job with the NFL's Jacksonville Jaguars.

Ferentz and Iowa athletic director Bob Bowlsby made the announcement Wednesday.

"The attention I have received regarding an NFL head coaching position with the Jacksonville Jaguars has been flattering, especially because I have the utmost regard for Wayne Weaver and the entire Jacksonville organization," said Ferentz. "However, my heart continues to lie with the University of Iowa, and I will remain the head coach of the Hawkeye football team."

Ferentz will receive an eight percent increase in salary. Ferentz' contract has been restructured and will take effect July 1. The restructuring of the contract pertains primarily to incentive clauses.

"I am very pleased that we have been able to restructure Kirk's contract in a way that meets his needs as well as those of the University," said Bowlsby. "The increase which goes into effect on July 1st is additional recognition of the outstanding work he has done for our program."

This season Ferentz guided Iowa to an 11-2 record, a berth in a BCS bowl and a national ranking that reached as high as No. 3.