LSU Dismisses Brian Kelly, Incurs Hefty Buyout Obligation
LSU has officially terminated Brian Kelly, incurring a hefty buyout obligation of $54 million. The decision was communicated in a letter from LSU President Wade Rousse, which reiterated the terms of Kelly’s contract.
Termination Details
The firing, classified as “without cause,” allows Kelly to collect the full amount remaining under his contract. Initially, the university relieved Kelly of his duties on October 26, citing performance issues. However, following comments from Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry, ambiguity emerged regarding the nature of the dismissal.
Legal Back-and-Forth
In response to Governor Landry’s criticism about the buyout, Kelly’s legal team filed a petition seeking clarification on his firing. The petition argued that unnamed LSU officials indicated Kelly had not been “formally terminated.” They disputed several claims, including:
- Lack of formal termination by LSU.
- Authority of Athletic Director Scott Woodward to dismiss Kelly.
- Lack of grounds for termination with cause.
The legal dispute reflects LSU’s failure to manage contract procedures effectively, should they have intended to terminate Kelly for cause.
Implications for LSU
As LSU navigates this situation, it is also in discussions to potentially hire Ole Miss coach Lane Kiffin, who is expected to announce his decision soon. Despite the financial burden posed by Kelly’s dismissal, the university may guarantee Kiffin a substantial contract should he choose to leave Ole Miss.
Recent administrative changes at LSU include Rousse stepping in as president and Verge Ausberry receiving a promotion to athletic director. Meanwhile, Kelly has expressed interest in returning to coaching in the upcoming year.
