Kelly's lawyers: LSU hindered his coaching career.

Jeff Hauser

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Brian Kelly's attorneys claim LSU made it 'nearly impossible' to coach again, per report image

TL;DR

  • Kelly's attorneys claim LSU's actions hinder his job search and call LSU's termination stance "contrived."
  • LSU's refusal to verify Kelly's termination without cause imperils his coaching prospects.
  • Kelly reserves rights to seek damages for interference in future employment opportunities.
  • LSU is exploring firing Kelly for cause, potentially voiding his $54 million contract.

Brian Kelly’s attorneys say LSU’s handling of his dismissal has “made it nearly impossible” for the former Tigers coach to pursue another job, according to a pair of letters sent to university officials and obtained by ESPN.

In a Nov. 18 letter addressed to athletic director Verge Ausberry and board of supervisors member John H. Carmouche, Kelly’s lawyers challenged LSU’s claim that it had not “formally terminated” him, calling the position “contrived” and without basis.

The correspondence indicates that LSU's unwillingness to verify Kelly's termination was without cause, coupled with unmentioned claims of wrongdoing, has imperiled his prospects for coaching positions amid a crucial recruitment phase.

“LSU’s conduct continues to harm Coach Kelly,” the letter reads. Kelly also warned that he “reserves all rights” to seek damages for interference in future employment.

LSU declined comment, citing ongoing litigation.

Kelly, 64, was removed from his duties Oct. 26, a day after a 49-25 loss to Texas A&M, but the school later argued that then-athletic director Scott Woodward lacked the authority to fire him. LSU has since explored firing Kelly for cause, a move that could void the roughly $54 million owed on his contract.

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