Brian Kelly has interviewed for the Maryland Terrapins’ head coaching vacancy, according to reporting by On3.
This development follows earlier reports of Maryland’s interest in the former Notre Dame and LSU coach, as noted by Inside Maryland Sports.
Maryland has been seeking a permanent replacement since moving on from Mike Locksley on Oct. 21 following a difficult 2-5 start.
Aazaar Abdul-Rahim is currently serving as the interim coach for the remainder of the season.
Kelly has reportedly engaged with university officials throughout the first half of November, including meetings held away from the campus, per USA TODAY Sports.
During these discussions, Kelly outlined a comprehensive roster plan aimed at elevating the program to compete in the upper half of the Big Ten conference.
He has also reportedly initiated conversations with potential assistants and front-office staff to ensure a rapid transition if he is hired.
Kelly has previously expressed appreciation for the university’s location and infrastructure.
“It is a fertile recruiting area; there’s no doubt,” Kelly said regarding the DMV region during an appearance on College Sports on SiriusXM.
Beyond his coaching resume, Kelly maintains a long-standing relationship with Under Armour founder Kevin Plank, a former Maryland player whose company provides apparel for the school.
Financial considerations remain a factor, as Kelly is currently owed approximately $54 million by LSU following his termination without cause last year.
Because his contract includes an offset clause, any salary earned at a new institution would reduce the monthly payments he receives from his former employer, as detailed by Front Office Sports.
Despite the complexity of his buyout, Kelly has indicated a strong desire to return to the sidelines if the situation is appropriate.
“I would love to be able to be a head football coach again, now it’s just a matter of if there is a right fit out there for me,” Kelly stated on SiriusXM.