Maryland University has announced that head football coach Michael Locksley has stepped down from his position following a series of disappointing results, including a recent 37-30 loss to Rutgers on October 17. The decision was described as a "mutual agreement" and comes after a challenging stretch in which the team suffered five consecutive losses, extending their Big Ten losing streak to 12 games. At the time of his departure, Maryland held a 2-5 record for the season with five games remaining.
Locksley, 56, who was in his ninth year as Maryland’s head coach, compiled an overall record of 39-54, including a 16-47 mark within Big Ten Conference play. He was noted for being the only coach in Maryland history to lead the program to three straight bowl victories but never achieved a winning record in conference play. His teams posted identical 1-8 conference records in both 2024 and 2025, and the program struggled to meet expectations of competing for Big Ten championships during his tenure.
The financial terms of Locksley’s contract, which was due to run through next season with an annual salary of $6 million, include a buyout totaling approximately $9.73 million. Despite language in the contract suggesting that the university would not owe additional payments if Locksley resigned voluntarily, Maryland confirmed that he will receive the full amount due. Half of this sum is scheduled to be paid within 60 days, with the remainder spread over installments through December 2028.
In the wake of Locksley’s departure, defensive coordinator Aazaar Abdul-Rahim has been named interim head coach for the remainder of the season. Abdul-Rahim, 49, a Washington, D.C. native, is in his third year of a second tenure with Maryland. Promoted to defensive coordinator earlier this month following the firing of Ted Monachino, Abdul-Rahim previously served as co-defensive coordinator, associate head coach for defense, and cornerbacks coach. Inside linebackers coach Zac Spavital has also been elevated to co-defensive coordinator.
Maryland is currently on a bye week, with Abdul-Rahim set to lead the team in their next game on October 31 against Illinois at home. Athletic Director Jim Smith has indicated that a search for a permanent successor is underway as the program seeks to rebuild and improve its competitiveness within the Big Ten. Smith expressed gratitude for Locksley’s commitment to the university and acknowledged the risks involved in the transition, including the possibility that some recruits may transfer amid the coaching change.