The LSU Board of Supervisors took decisive action on Friday concerning a lawsuit initiated by former head football coach Brian Kelly. Kelly, who was dismissed after a disappointing loss to Texas A&M, claims in his lawsuit that he was never officially terminated and that LSU is failing to uphold the contractual obligations of his $54 million deal.
During a meeting that included an executive session to deliberate on the matter, the LSU Board ultimately approved a motion to issue a formal notice of termination to Kelly. The legal contention highlights that LSU is attempting to categorize Kelly’s firing as “for cause,” which could significantly impact the financial ramifications of his exit, particularly his buyout amount.
Kelly’s legal team has filed a request with the East Baton Rouge Parish court for a declaratory judgment asserting that his termination on October 26 was without cause. If upheld, this could entitle him to the full amount of his buyout.
This ongoing legal battle illustrates the complexities surrounding coaching contracts in collegiate athletics, particularly when performance expectations lead to unexpected resignations and terminations. The resolution of this case may set important precedents for future coaching contract disputes within the NCAA landscape. As both parties prepare for the next steps, stakeholders in college sports will be closely watching how this situation unfolds.