LSU and Brian Kelly: The End of a Short-Lived Partnership

LSU has officially cut ties with former football coach Brian Kelly. The school has terminated his contract without cause, which means Kelly is eligible to receive the full $53 million buyout. This decision comes after a series of back-and-forth legal moves between Kelly and LSU. New LSU president Wade Rousse sent a letter to Kelly, confirming the termination. The letter states that LSU will pay the required liquidated damages as outlined in the contract. It also mentions that Kelly must actively seek new employment while the buyout is being paid out. Kelly's attorney, Robert Fumerton, had previously sent letters to LSU leadership. One letter claimed that LSU's actions had made it difficult for Kelly to find a new job in football. Another letter requested written confirmation of Kelly's termination without cause. Kelly was fired by LSU on October 26, eight games into his fourth season. He then filed a lawsuit in Louisiana court, seeking confirmation that he was fired without cause and that he was owed the full remaining value of his contract. According to the lawsuit, LSU representatives told Kelly's representatives during a call that Kelly had not been formally terminated when the school announced a coaching change. They also mentioned that grounds for termination with cause existed. If LSU had terminated Kelly with cause, they would not have had to pay his full buyout. Last Friday, LSU's board voted to allow Rousse to formally terminate Kelly. With the notification sent on Thursday, the process is now official. Sources familiar with the lawsuit say it will be withdrawn on Monday. Kelly left Notre Dame after the 2021 season to become LSU's coach. He was given a 10-year, $95 million contract. During his time at LSU, Kelly had a record of 34 wins and 14 losses in three-plus seasons. This situation raises questions about the dynamics between college football programs and their coaches. It also highlights the complexities of contract negotiations and the legal battles that can arise from them.