The ex-LSU head coach, Brian Kelly, has communicated publicly for the first time since his departure from the university approximately two weeks prior.
Kelly expressed in a message shared on various social media platforms that he intends to support interim head coach Frank Wilson and the team for the remainder of the season, as the Tigers prepare to compete against Alabama on Saturday evening.
“This path commenced with significant anticipation, guided by my personal strategy for achieving success,” stated Kelly. “Occasionally, the journey’s conclusion diverges from our initial expectations.”
LSU’s record declined to 5-3 after a defeat at home against Texas A&M during Week 9. This marked the second consecutive year the Tigers were defeated by the Aggies, leading to Kelly’s dismissal the day after the game.
Assuming a lack of a modified agreement, Kelly’s severance compensation from LSU, exceeding $50 million, is documented as the second-highest within the realm of college football, following behind the $77 million allocated by the Aggies to Jimbo Fisher.
During Kelly’s tenure spanning more than three seasons with the school, LSU achieved a record of 34-14. The Tigers achieved a 10-4 record in his inaugural season and a 10-3 record in 2023, during which Jayden Daniels secured the Heisman Trophy. However, LSU’s performance decreased to 9-4 in 2024, and they have also experienced defeats against Ole Miss and Vanderbilt this season.
“As everyone prepares to watch the Tigers compete, I extend my best wishes to Coach Wilson, the coaching staff, and our players for the upcoming weekend,” Kelly conveyed. “I am confident they will dedicate their utmost efforts for both personal success and for LSU’s benefit. We will be watching and cheering for your achievements.”
Kelly’s announcement coincided with LSU’s appointment of Wade Rousse, formerly the president of McNeese, as its new president. Shortly following Rousse’s appointment, he officially removed the interim designation from Verge Ausberry’s athletic director role, entrusting Ausberry with the responsibility of identifying Kelly’s successor.
In the aftermath of Kelly’s dismissal, LSU terminated the employment of athletic director Scott Woodward, following public criticisms from Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry. The governor, referencing Kelly’s contractual agreement and the original contract extended to Fisher by Woodward during his tenure as the athletic director at A&M, indicated that Woodward would not be involved in the search for a new football coach subsequent to Kelly’s departure.
