Maryland Parts Ways with Head Coach Mike Locksley Following Disappointing Start

Maryland has terminated the contract of head coach Mike Locksley after a disappointing 2-5 start to the 2026 season. The decision was announced following the Terrapins' 37-30 loss to Rutgers during their homecoming game at SECU Stadium.

Locksley, who had been with the program since December 2018, recorded a 39-54 overall record during his tenure. Despite a promising period from 2021 to 2023, where the team achieved three consecutive bowl appearances, recent seasons saw a decline in performance, culminating in a 4-8 record in 2024 and 2025. The team had hoped for improvement this season, but losses to Virginia Tech, UCLA, and Rutgers led to Locksley's dismissal.

Maryland will now begin the search for a new head coach, with defensive coordinator Aazaar Abdul-Rahim stepping in as interim coach. The university is committed to enhancing its football program's resources, which may attract potential candidates. The future of key players, including quarterback Malik Washington, remains uncertain as the program transitions to new leadership.