Overview
- Athletic director Jim Smith told ESPN that Locksley will return in 2026 with significantly increased financial support for the program.
- Maryland is 4-6 with six consecutive losses after a 4-0 start, following a 4-8 season in 2024.
- Buying out Locksley’s contract would have cost about $13 million.
- Smith said the plan prioritizes roster retention, recruiting and competing in the transfer portal, with NIL resources expected to exceed 2025 levels.
- The case for continuity points to a strong freshman nucleus, including QB Malik Washington and defensive ends Sidney Stewart and Zahir Mathis from an ESPN No. 24 class.