Will LSU fire Brian Kelly? Why Tigers coach's future in Baton Rouge is in question after latest loss

Brian Kelly doesn't look to have much more time left in charge of the LSU Tigers.

The veteran coach, who joined the program in 2022, has enjoyed a sordid time in charge of the Tigers. On one hand, he has produced a glut of NFL talent, including standouts Jayden Daniels and Malik Nabers.

Yet, LSU has achieved precious little during his spell. The Tigers are without a College Football Playoff appearance during Kelly's tenure. Following their 49-25 loss to Texas A&M on Saturday — their third defeat in the last four games — they appear destined to miss out on the Big Dance once more.

The vultures are swirling, with rumors of Kelly's demise abound. Here's the latest on his status.

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Will LSU fire Brian Kelly?

Kelly's status appears in flux following LSU's loss to Texas A&M. The longtime Tigers boss' position was already under threat following a pair of defeats to ranked opposition. The Aggies' result compounded issues, with Yahoo Sports' Ross Dellenger reporting that LSU administrators held emergency talks regarding Kelly's future and the prospect of a potential buyout.

On3 Sports' Pete Nakos reported that LSU's position coaches were sent home from the Tigers' practice facility, potentially suggesting a major move could be looming.

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Brian Kelly contract buyout

Kelly's contract features a $54 million buyout, per ESPN's Pete Thamel. The fee represents one of the largest in college football; per On3 Sports', only Kirby Smart, Ryan Day, Kalen DeBoer, Steve Sarkisian, Dabo Swinney, Mike Norvell, Dan Lannning and Curt Cignetti entered the 2025 season with higher buyout totals than Kelly.