The University of South Dakota can’t officially sign its new head football coach until the state Board of Regents temporarily suspends a longstanding policy prohibiting multiyear contracts.

School officials announced the hiring of Western Illinois head coach Bob Nielson in December, and Nielson has been busy assembling his staff after agreeing to a $255,000 annual salary. But Nielson is seeking a long-term commitment, and current Board of Regents policy only allows one-year contracts for employees.

Regents Executive Director Michael Rush says the board on Friday will consider approving a one-time suspension of its policy so USD can sign Nielson. It will then look at potential long-term policy changes.

Athletic Director David Herbster says he’ll announce the length of the school’s commitment to Nielson after the regents approve the contract.