Baton Rouge, LA — April 16, 2025In a stunning and unexpected turn of events, LSU head football coach Brian Kelly has announced his resignation, effective immediately. The decision, confirmed early Wednesday morning, marks the end of a controversial and turbulent tenure in Baton Rouge that began in 2021.
Kelly’s departure delivers yet another significant blow to the LSU football program, which has been battling a string of challenges both on and off the field. The Tigers have struggled to maintain consistency in the SEC, facing scrutiny over recruiting, underwhelming performance in marquee matchups, and internal discord that has only grown louder in recent months.
In a brief statement released by the university, Kelly said, “It has been an honor to lead the LSU Tigers, but after much reflection and conversations with my family and university leadership, I have decided it’s time for a new chapter. I am grateful for the opportunity and proud of the relationships built here. I wish the players, staff, and fans nothing but success.”
The timing of Kelly’s exit is particularly shocking given that spring football is currently underway and the team was believed to be entering a critical developmental phase. Multiple sources close to the program say friction between Kelly and university officials—reportedly over recruiting strategies and staff decisions—may have played a significant role in his resignation.
Athletic Director Scott Woodward is expected to address the media later today. Early indications suggest LSU will appoint an interim head coach while a national search begins for a permanent replacement. The Tigers’ next head coach will inherit a talented but unsettled roster, a passionate fan base, and high expectations that come with the LSU brand.
Kelly, who left Notre Dame in 2021 to join LSU on a 10-year, $95 million contract, never quite achieved the dominance LSU fans had hoped for. Though he led the Tigers to an SEC West title in 2022 and back-to-back bowl appearances, consistency was elusive. This past season, LSU ended with an 8-5 record, falling short of expectations and raising questions about the team’s trajectory under Kelly’s leadership.
The news comes just weeks after reports surfaced of internal dissatisfaction within the locker room. Anonymous sources cited a lack of communication, shifting coaching philosophies, and player development concerns. One source said, “It felt like things were just… off. You could feel the disconnect.”
This marks the second high-profile departure from the LSU athletics program in recent months, following the resignation of longtime strength and conditioning coach Tommy Moffitt earlier this year. Combined with ongoing NCAA investigations related to past recruiting violations, the program is facing a pivotal moment.
Fans have already begun speculating about potential replacements, with names like Lane Kiffin, Mike Elko, and even former LSU interim coach Ed Orgeron being thrown into early conversations. The university, however, is expected to take its time with what will be one of the most closely watched coaching searches of the offseason.
More updates to follow a
s the story develops.
