
LSU fires Brian Kelly and agrees to pay $54 million
LSU fires Brian Kelly and agrees to pay $54 million
- Brian Kelly was formally fired by LSU on October 26, 2025, following a disappointing football season.
- The university was obliged to pay Kelly $54 million after dismissing him without cause, in line with his contract terms.
- The resolution of this employment dispute marks a turnaround for LSU, allowing them to move on with their coaching search.
Story
In the United States, LSU fired head coach Brian Kelly on October 26, 2025, after a poor season performance, culminating in a significant loss to Texas A&M. Following his termination, LSU was required to issue a formal notice due to the dispute regarding Kelly's contract and buyout terms, which was set at $54 million through 2031. Kelly's firing without cause set off a lawsuit over the buyout terms, sparking discussions regarding Kelly's employment and the authority of former athletic director Scott Woodward. The LSU Board of Supervisors ultimately agreed to the payout, marking the conclusion of a contentious standoff between Kelly and the university, as they navigated the complexities of contract law and employment. The settlement occurred after a month-long negotiation period that left Kelly sidelined in the job market while LSU attempted to negotiate a lower buyout. The whole situation attracted media attention and scrutiny, particularly in light of the school's pursuit of potential coaching candidates like Lane Kiffin, emphasizing the pressure LSU faced to resolve the matter and move forward efficiently.