In first post-exit interview, Mike Locksley details firing, talks about what went wrong, what's next for him
247Sports • • sports
Key Points:
- Former Maryland football coach Mike Locksley does not expect to return as a college head coach and plans to pursue NFL roles or college coordinator positions where he can compete for championships, ruling out rebuilding jobs like Maryland.
- Locksley, who finished with a 39-54 record at Maryland and a 10-21 mark since the start of 2024, was relieved of his duties after a 2-5 start and a 12th straight Big Ten loss, with the program announcing a mutual parting.
- He cited challenges such as staff turnover, difficulty retaining top assistants, and Maryland's unpreparedness for NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) financial demands as key factors in his tenure struggles.
- Locksley is owed a $9.75 million buyout with no offset clause, meaning Maryland must pay the full amount despite financial deficits and ongoing coaching search expenses.
- Aazaar Abdul-Rahim has been named interim head coach while Maryland launches a national search for a permanent successor; Locksley may also explore television commentary opportunities.
