Read on foxsports.comLSU Athletic Director Scott Woodward Resigns Amid Football Program Upheaval
LSU announced the resignation of athletic director Scott Woodward on Thursday, marking a significant leadership change just days after the firing of football coach Brian Kelly. Woodward, who had served as athletic director for six years, stepped down under pressure from the position he held since April 2019. During his tenure, LSU achieved multiple national championships across various sports, but recent football program challenges and substantial coaching buyouts created mounting pressure. The university has appointed Verge Ausberry as interim athletic director to lead the search for a new football coach during this transitional period.
Louisiana State University announced a major leadership change in its athletic department on Thursday with the resignation of athletic director Scott Woodward. The decision comes just four days after the firing of football coach Brian Kelly and follows increasing scrutiny over the program's direction and financial commitments.
Leadership Transition Under Pressure
Woodward's departure was characterized as a resignation under pressure, ending his six-year tenure leading LSU athletics. The Baton Rouge native and LSU graduate had held the position since April 2019, overseeing one of the most successful periods in the university's athletic history. According to reporting from FOX Sports, the timing of Woodward's exit suggests mounting pressure following recent football program struggles.
Governor's Intervention and Coaching Search
The situation escalated when Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry publicly stated that Woodward would not be involved in hiring Kelly's replacement. During a news conference on Wednesday, Landry expressed concerns about financial liabilities, specifically referencing the $53 million buyout owed to Kelly and drawing parallels to previous coaching contracts. "This is a pattern," Landry said. "Right now, we've got a $53 million liability. We are not doing that again."
Interim Leadership and Future Direction
LSU has appointed Verge Ausberry, the executive deputy athletic director, to serve as interim athletic director and lead the search for a new football coach. In a statement, LSU Board of Supervisors chairman Scott Ballard acknowledged Woodward's contributions: "We thank Scott for the last six years of service as athletic director. He had a lot of success at LSU. Our focus now is on moving the athletic department forward and best positioning LSU to achieve its full potential."
Financial Implications and Contract Details
Woodward's contract reportedly includes more than $5 million in compensation through 2029, though LSU has not yet announced the specific financial terms of his separation agreement. The substantial coaching buyouts during Woodward's tenure, including approximately $17 million for former coach Ed Orgeron and the record $53 million for Brian Kelly, have drawn significant attention to the athletic department's financial management.
Institutional Context and Broader Changes
The leadership transition occurs during a period of broader institutional change at LSU. The university currently lacks a permanent president following William F. Tate IV's departure to Rutgers in July. The Board of Supervisors, whose members are appointed by the governor, is expected to select a new president on Tuesday. Since taking office in January 2024, Governor Landry has appointed nine of the 18 board members, with four more appointments possible in 2026.
Conclusion: A New Chapter for LSU Athletics
The resignation of Scott Woodward marks a significant turning point for LSU athletics, coming at a time when the football program faces both competitive and financial challenges. As interim leadership takes charge and begins the search for a new football coach, the university must balance its rich athletic tradition with responsible financial management. The decisions made in the coming weeks will shape LSU's athletic future and determine how the program navigates this period of transition and rebuilding.
