Overview
- The University of Maryland announced Wednesday that it and head coach Mike Locksley have parted ways and co‑defensive coordinator Aazaar Abdul‑Rahim will serve as interim head coach for the rest of the season.
- Locksley leaves with a 39‑54 Maryland record after a 2‑5 start in 2026 that included five straight losses and an extended Big Ten skid that helped prompt the change.
- Media reports place Locksley’s buyout at roughly $9–10 million, with some outlets saying contract language could require about half of that to be paid within 60 days unless the parties reach a settlement.
- Maryland had removed defensive coordinator Ted Monachino days earlier, promoting Abdul‑Rahim to defensive play‑caller before elevating him to interim head coach.
- The firing creates the first Power Four head‑coaching opening of the season, triggers an immediate national search, and raises near‑term risks for recruiting and transfer‑portal movement ahead of the Oct. 31 game versus Illinois.