NEW ORLEANS (AP) — In a surprising turn of events, LSU has officially fired head coach Brian Kelly during his fourth season of a lucrative 10-year contract, valued at approximately $100 million. The announcement was made by athletic director Scott Woodward on Sunday night, following a disappointing 49-25 loss to No. 3 Texas A&M at Tiger Stadium. This defeat marks LSU’s second consecutive loss and their third in just four games, leaving their record at 5-3 overall and 2-3 within the Southeastern Conference.
“When Coach Kelly arrived at LSU four years ago, we had high hopes that he would lead us to multiple SEC and national championships during his time in Baton Rouge,” Woodward stated. “Ultimately, the success at the level that LSU demands simply did not materialize.” This statement underscores the high expectations placed on LSU football and the pressure to perform at elite levels.
In light of Kelly's departure, associate head coach Frank Wilson, who also serves as the team’s running backs coach, has been appointed as the interim head coach for the remainder of the 2025 season. Kelly was initially brought on board from Notre Dame to replace Ed Orgeron, who stepped down after the 2021 regular season. Under Kelly’s leadership, the Tigers recorded a solid 34-14 record, even making an appearance in the 2022 SEC title game. However, the team has struggled to qualify for the College Football Playoff in his first three seasons, and the recent loss to the Aggies has all but eliminated LSU from playoff contention as the format is set to expand from four to twelve teams in the upcoming 2024 season.
“I will not compromise in our pursuit of excellence and we will not lower our standards,” emphasized Woodward, an LSU graduate who has held his position since 2019, the same year the Tigers last claimed a national title under Orgeron. Orgeron’s exit followed two seasons without a winning record, raising further questions about the program's direction.
Despite not securing a playoff berth, Kelly made significant contributions, including the development of quarterback Jayden Daniels, who emerged as a Heisman Trophy winner in 2023. “I am confident in our ability to bring to Baton Rouge an outstanding leader, teacher, and coach, who fits our culture and community and who embraces the excellence that we demand,” Woodward stated, indicating a commitment to finding a replacement that aligns with LSU’s values and aspirations.
While LSU may face a hefty financial obligation to Kelly, potentially amounting to tens of millions of dollars, the exact figure remains unclear as of Sunday night. “We will continue to negotiate his separation and will work toward a path that is better for both parties,” Woodward concluded, signaling a desire for a smooth transition as the program looks to redefine its future.
