Main Story

Maryland fired Mike Locksley after a 2-5 start, ending his seven-plus-year tenure and making the Terrapins the first Power Four program to open a head-coaching job this season. The move follows a sharp downturn after three straight bowl seasons, despite increased investment in the roster. Defensive coordinator Aazaar Abdul-Rahim will serve as interim coach while Maryland begins its search.

By the Numbers
  • Locksley’s record at Maryland: 39-54.
  • Maryland’s Big Ten record since 2024: 2-20.
  • Locksley’s buyout: more than $9 million; his 2026 salary was $6.4 million.
  • Maryland’s 2026 record: 2-5, including a 54-3 loss to UCLA.
Yes, But

Locksley’s tenure included three consecutive bowl appearances from 2021-23, capped by an 8-5 season and a Music City Bowl win. Maryland also faced resource constraints earlier in his tenure, but the school increased football spending ahead of 2026. The roster still has promising talent, though a coaching change could put its retention in doubt.

State of Play
  • Abdul-Rahim takes over on an interim basis; his first game is scheduled for Oct. 31 against Illinois.
  • Maryland is beginning its coaching search with no other Power Four head-coaching job currently open.
  • Quarterback Malik Washington and the future of the roster are key questions for the next coach.
What’s Next

Maryland will look for a program builder who can capitalize on its increased investment and recruiting base. Potential candidates mentioned include Jake Dickert, Billy Napier, Jason Eck and Dan Mullen. The next coach will also need to decide how to retain and develop the current roster.

Bottom Line

Maryland is betting that a coaching change can turn greater resources and a talented core into wins—but its first priority is convincing that core to stay.