Overview
- Smith confirmed Locksley’s return and said NIL and other football resources will rise in 2026 to prioritize roster retention, recruiting and transfer-portal competitiveness.
- Maryland is 4-6 overall and 1-6 in the Big Ten after a 24-6 loss to Illinois, with games against Michigan and Michigan State still ahead.
- In an open letter to supporters, Smith endorsed Locksley, said he informed the coach and would brief the team, and announced a post-season review with senior deputy AD Diana Sabau.
- Reports indicate a termination now would trigger a buyout of about $13–13.4 million under Locksley’s contract, a consideration in the decision and timing.
- The investment push targets keeping a promising freshman core — quarterback Malik Washington and defensive ends Sidney Stewart and Zahir Mathis — after recent funding and transfer-portal shortfalls.