Overview
- LSU announced Thursday night that it is parting ways with athletic director Scott Woodward, appointing executive deputy Verge Ausberry as interim AD to lead the department and the football coaching search.
- The change follows Gov. Jeff Landry’s statement that Woodward would not select the next coach, saying he would let President Trump choose before Woodward and that the LSU Board of Supervisors would form a search committee.
- Reporting indicates Landry hosted LSU officials at the governor’s mansion as Kelly’s firing was finalized, and his public intervention drew warnings from media and insiders that it hurt the Tigers’ search for a replacement.
- Brian Kelly’s buyout is reported at roughly $53–54 million, with LSU beginning monthly payments as lawyers negotiate; the contract includes mitigation language that could reduce the final obligation if he secures new employment.
- Woodward’s separation is expected to pay him about $6–6.4 million, and Board chair Scott Ballard thanked him while noting athletics will cover financial obligations without diverting money from academics.