LSU and athletic director Scott Woodward to part ways, per report

LSU is in the process of parting ways with athletic director Scott Woodward, according to Yahoo Sports' Ross Dellenger.

The move comes amid a high-stakes football coaching search following the firing of head coach Brian Kelly last Sunday. Woodward, who has led LSU’s athletic department since 2019, reportedly fell out of favor with key stakeholders, including Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry.

Woodward was told this week he would not oversee the Tigers’ next coaching hire, citing frustration with his history of costly buyouts.

LSU and AD Scott Woodward are finalizing an exit agreement, sources tell @YahooSports. Longtime LSU athletic administrator Verge Ausberry is expected to serve as the interim athletic director.

Kelly was dismissed after LSU’s 49-25 home loss to Texas A&M, dropping the Tigers to 5-3. His exit triggered a $54 million buyout, the second largest in college football history.

Woodward's buyout is $6.4 million and is negotiating an exit agreement with the school. Longtime deputy athletic director Verge Ausberry is expected to serve as interim AD.

Woodward previously hired Jimbo Fisher at Texas A&M to a record-breaking contract that resulted in a $76 million buyout. He also lured Kelly from Notre Dame on a 10-year, $95 million deal in 2021. 

Though Woodward’s bold hires energized programs, the financial toll of his contracts has drawn sharp criticism as LSU seeks new leadership both on and off the field.

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