Governor Landry Excludes Athletic Director From LSU Coaching Search

Baton Rouge, Louisiana – Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry announced Wednesday that LSU athletic director Scott Woodward will not participate in selecting the university’s next football coach following the firing of Brian Kelly. Landry made the comments during a press conference about state-funded assistance amid the government shutdown.

Landry stated, “I can tell you right now, Scott Woodward is not selecting the next coach. Hell, I’ll let Donald Trump select it before I let him do it.” His remarks come a day after LSU dropped to 5-3 following a loss to Texas A&M.

Kelly, who was hired in 2021 with a 10-year, $100 million contract, amassed a record of 34-14 during his tenure at LSU. However, the Tigers’ recent struggles — losing three out of their last four games — contributed to his dismissal.

In response to questions about the selection process, Landry explained that the LSU Board of Supervisors would form a search committee to find Kelly’s replacement. Woodward’s absence from this process raised eyebrows, particularly from LSU board chair Scott Ballard, who claimed he was unaware of Landry’s decision.

Landry expressed frustration over Woodward’s previous contracts, including Kelly’s expensive agreement which leaves LSU potentially liable for $53 million. “We are not going down a failed path,” he emphasized, alluding to past coaching contracts that resulted in significant payouts.

He criticized the financial implications for taxpayers and mentioned raising ticket prices during a losing season as inappropriate. “I’m not going to be picking the next coach,” Landry clarified, “but I can promise you that we’re going to pick a coach, and we’re going to make sure that that coach is successful.”

Kelly’s departure highlights ongoing concerns about LSU’s football program management under Woodward, who has a reputation for securing high-profile coaching contracts. Critics have voiced dissatisfaction with Woodward’s handling of coaching hires, particularly in the wake of Kelly’s and former Texas A&M coach Jimbo Fisher‘s recent setbacks.

As the university prepares for another coaching search, Landry remains adamant about protecting taxpayer interests amidst significant financial stakes connected to coaching contracts.