Industry sources provide critical updates on LSU Tigers’ $54 million buyout with Brian Kelly

The LSU Tigers are closing in on paying head football coach Brian Kelly his negotiated $54 million buyout to leave the program.

ESPN’s Pete Thamel’s source revealed on Sunday afternoon that there’s been “outreach to Kelly about his potential departure.” On3’s Peter Nakos then revealed that “LSU position coaches have been sent home from the facility, with Brian Kelly's future with the Tigers an unknown.”

Yahoo Sports’ Ross Dellenger revealed that Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry will be involved in the decision on Kelly, since LSU does not currently have a president.

“LSU administrators and university executives have held and are holding high-level discussions over the future of football coach Brian Kelly, sources tell Yahoo Sports. While there is no immediate resolution, the conversations - which involve the state's governor - are on-going,” Dellenger wrote.

“Officials are considering various aspects in the decision on Kelly's future, most notably a ~$53 million buyout of his contract, which is eased because of offset language (it is reduced by future work and would be delivered in installments over several years).

“The situation in Baton Rouge is made complicated as the university is searching for a permanent president (the school announced five finalists).

“In its absence, Gov. Jeff Landry has become integral and is expected, if he hasn't already, to meet with key donors & board members.”

The situation will be evolving, but Kelly has almost certainly coached his last game for the Tigers. He will have gone out on consecutive losses to the TAMU Aggies and Vanderbilt Commodores.