Brian Kelly’s firing has triggered a legal showdown as intense as his games leading LSU. The coach signed a 10-year, $95 million contract in 2021. And now he demands that the university fully honor his buyout clause.
Kelly, 64, refuses to accept less than the $54 million he claims he’s owed. According to The Advocate, the former coach rejected two settlement offers — one for $25 million and another for $30 million. His refusal was absolute. Kelly’s attorneys sent a formal letter to athletic director Verge Ausberry and Board of Supervisors member John Carmouche, demanding written confirmation by Monday at 5 p.m. that the university would “fulfill its contractual obligation.”
A dispute with political and athletic ivertones
According to the New York Post, Kelly’s legal team warned, “In the absence of written confirmation by that date, Coach Kelly will pursue all legal remedies available.”
Brian Kelly’s lawsuit against LSU states that LSU offered him a $25/30 million payment instead of $53m buyout w/ offset.
He didn’t accept but was open to more offers. Then LSU said they didn’t actually fire him but could for cause.Our updated story: https://t.co/N9o3074nyg pic.twitter.com/vFOXjPCIlR
— Chris Vannini (@ChrisVannini) November 11, 2025
Kelly’s contract states that if fired without cause, he must receive 90% of his remaining annual salary, paid in monthly installments through 2031. However, his exit came abruptly after a 49–25 loss to Texas A&M, which left LSU with a 5–3 record.
During his tenure at LSU, Kelly delivered consistent results — 10–4, 10–3, and 9–4 in his first three seasons. Still, political and athletic pressure outweighed performance.
Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry played a significant role in recent program decisions. According to Yahoo Sports, his tensions with former athletic director Scott Woodward contributed to both men’s dismissals. Landry didn’t hold back: “I can tell you right now that Scott Woodward is not picking the next coach. Hell, I’d let Donald Trump pick him before I let him do it.”
Kelly and LSU officials will meet to seek a resolution, but their positions appear irreconcilable. If no agreement is reached, the case could head to court, adding another turbulent chapter to Louisiana’s college football year.
