Brian Kelly reveals how he uses AI to help prepare for next coaching gig: 'Part of the next iteration in coaching'

For the first time in decades, it appears college football will have a 2026 season in which Brian Kelly is not at the helm of a FBS team.

The 64-year-old was fired by LSU mid-way through the 2025 season after a 5-3 start, ending a run with the Tigers that included 34 wins in total. But Kelly, despite being one of the bigger names on the open market, never found a home in the following coaching carousel.

That isn't to say that Kelly isn't still interested in coaching, however. In fact, he recently shared that as he awaits his next opportunity, he's utilized a unique way to stay prepared: AI.

Here's how Kelly said he's been using AI to help him stay ready for his next coaching job.

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How Brian Kelly uses AI for coaching

In a recent conversation with USA Today, Kelly, who is around six months removed from being let go by LSU, said that he's been utilizing artificial intelligence to help him stay ready to coach.

“Every day, I’m trying to do my due diligence using Claude and AI, asking questions to build some of those answers that I think can be helpful for me as I get in front of an athletic director,” Kelly said.

The longtime head coach said he's used the platforms for multiple areas, including recruiting.

“Claude, as you know, is probably a little bit better in predicting some of the things outside the lines, whereas ChatGPT is much more driven right down the center. But there’s some interesting things that I’ve laid down relative to recruiting, profiling, transfer portal, there’s a lot of work you can do,” Kelly told USA Today. “And I think it’s going to have to be part of the next iteration in coaching. You’re going to have to utilize those tools. Now, look, it’s not going to take over everything. Balls and strikes are here to stay in Major League Baseball. But it’s not taking over the game, I think it’s enhancing it. And I think AI, used the right way, and understanding how to use it, can enhance the experience for everybody.”

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What is Brian Kelly doing now?

Kelly, 64, remains a coaching free agent. However, he has made it clear that he wants to return to coaching — per CBS Sports, he said that he continues watching film every day in preparation to coach again, and has already been offered "consulting roles at various programs ahead of the 2026 season."

Additionally, Kelly recently made his first TV appearance since leaving LSU. Per USA Today, Kelly is expected to continue making appearances on CBS' college football studio show and making some radio and podcasts spots.

"This is an all-you-can-eat buffet when it comes to wide receivers."@CoachBrianKelly loves the wide receiver talent in the 2026 NFL Draft. pic.twitter.com/ArSHavKAV8