Brian Kelly’s LSU Departure Reaches a Resolution
The situation between Brian Kelly and LSU, which has been quite tumultuous, seems to have come to a favorable conclusion for the former Tigers coach. He is set to receive the remaining amount of $54 million owed to him after he filed a lawsuit asserting that the university was attempting to dodge its payment obligations.
Kelley alleged that LSU informed his representatives that he wasn’t officially fired and that they planned to dismiss him for cause, which effectively aimed to avoid the buyout. In a letter from the school received on Wednesday, it was stated that he had indeed been officially terminated without cause and that he was entitled to “compensation on demand” per his contract.
Interestingly, LSU mentioned that he is legally required to actively seek another football job while still being compensated by the university. This nuance adds an interesting layer to the situation.
Reflecting on Kelly’s time at LSU, the former athletic director, Scott Woodward, noted earlier, “We hoped he would lead us to multiple SEC and national championships, but, ultimately, we didn’t see the success that LSU demands.” This statement followed a particularly challenging game, prompting the decision to part ways.
Woodward himself resigned after Governor Jeff Landry objected to his hiring decisions, suggesting that the president make coaching choices instead. The lawsuit claims LSU indicated Kelly hadn’t been officially let go since Woodward lacked the authority to either fire him or present a settlement.
Landry has also criticized Woodward for his handling of a significant contract with former Texas A&M coach Jimbo Fisher, drawing further scrutiny to the athletic department’s decisions.
Kelly’s departure coincides with similar upheavals in college football, such as the firing of Penn State’s James Franklin. Though Franklin has already found a position at Virginia Tech, Kelly has yet to secure his next role.
With a career record of 297-109-2, including time spent at institutions like Notre Dame, Central Michigan, and Cincinnati, Kelly quite clearly has a storied coaching background. Now, what’s next for him? Time will tell.
