Maryland Retains Coach Mike Locksley, Plans to Increase NIL Support

Maryland football coach Mike Locksley will remain with the team for the 2026 season. Athletic director Jim Smith confirmed plans to enhance financial support for the program, indicating this decision aligns with broader recruitment and retention strategies.

Focus on NIL Support and Team Stability

Locksley is currently in his eighth season, with a record of 37 wins and 47 losses at Maryland. The team struggles this year, sitting at 4-6 after losing six consecutive games. In the previous season, they finished with a 4-8 record after experiencing three consecutive bowl game wins, the longest streak in the team’s history.

• Team Record: 4-6 this season
• Last Season Record: 4-8
• Previous Bowl Wins: Three consecutive

Recruiting Strategy and Emerging Talent

Smith emphasized the importance of retaining key players, particularly a competitive freshman class. The highlighted talents include:

• Malik Washington: Freshman quarterback with 13 passing touchdowns and 4 rushing touchdowns.
• Sidney Stewart: Freshman defensive end with 8.5 tackles for loss (TFL).
• Zahir Mathis: Freshman defensive end with 7.0 tackles for loss (TFL).

These players contribute significantly to the recruiting class of 2025, which ranks No. 24 nationally and includes seven ESPN 300 commits. Smith remains optimistic about the program’s future and talent pool.

Financial Investment and Competitive Edge

Smith noted that the financial resources available to Locksley in 2026 will surpass previous years. He spoke about the urgent need to enhance Maryland’s Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) capabilities to remain competitive within the Big Ten conference.

• Budget Increase: Significant boost in NIL funds planned for 2026.
• Context: Cost of firing Locksley would exceed $13 million per his contract.
• Focus Areas: Roster retention and competing in the transfer portal.

Upcoming Schedule

Maryland’s schedule for 2026 includes seven home games, featuring five Big Ten matchups. The nonconference games will include:

• Hampton (Home)
• Virginia Tech (Home)
• UConn (Away)

With a renewed focus on building a stronger program, Maryland aims to reshape its football trajectory and improve its competitive standing in the Big Ten.