Maryland has fired Mike Locksley and begun its search for a coach who can build a more competitive Big Ten program. Athletic director Jim Smith says the school can provide the resources to assemble a strong roster, though Maryland’s spending remains below the conference’s top tier. Smith is seeking an experienced leader who can build a program and navigate today’s college-football landscape.

By the Numbers
  • Maryland was 2-5 when Locksley was fired, following back-to-back 4-8 seasons.
  • Locksley’s buyout is approximately $9.75 million.
  • Oregon and Ohio State spent more than $40 million each on their 2026 rosters; Maryland spent at least $20 million.
  • Maryland’s defense ranked 101st nationally in total defense.
Yes, But

Maryland says the job has the resources and recruiting advantages to attract strong candidates, but it spends less than the Big Ten’s biggest programs. Smith also has limited experience running a football coaching search, and the timing of Locksley’s firing surprised people around the program.

State of Play
  • Interim coach Aazaar Abdul-Rahim is leading the team during the search.
  • Smith expects to hire a search firm and is prioritizing leadership, roster-building ability and experience assembling a strong staff.
  • Other openings, including at Baylor and NC State, are adding competition for candidates; potential moves at Florida State or USC could further reshape the market.
What's Next

Maryland will compete for candidates as the coaching market develops. The eventual hire will need to turn the school’s stated resource commitments and recruiting opportunities into a roster capable of challenging in the Big Ten.

Bottom Line

Maryland is betting that a new coach—not just greater investment—can close the gap with the Big Ten’s top programs. The hire will test whether the school’s resources and market advantages are enough to make that ambition real.