AI assist for what it's worth...
According to a lawsuit filed by Brian Kelly on November 11, 2025, LSU is alleging that former Athletic Director Scott Woodward did not have the authority to fire him, and therefore he was not "formally terminated". Kelly's lawsuit contests this position, and seeks a declaratory judgment that confirms he was fired without cause and is owed his full $54 million buyout.
Key details from the lawsuit: - Initial Firing: Kelly was dismissed by then-AD Woodward on October 26, 2025, with LSU citing poor on-field performance. A performance-related firing triggers the multi-million dollar buyout provision in his contract.
- Negotiations Breakdown: LSU reportedly offered Kelly settlement payments of $25 million and $30 million, which he rejected.
- LSU's Legal Position: During a breakdown in negotiations, Kelly's lawsuit alleges that LSU informed his legal team that he had not been "formally terminated" and that Woodward lacked the authority to do so. LSU also allegedly suggested it had grounds to fire Kelly "for cause," a move that would void the buyout.
- Woodward's Departure: Woodward left LSU four days after Kelly's initial firing, amid public criticism from Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry over the size of Kelly's contract.
While the details of this specific claim are new due to Kelly's lawsuit, the issue is directly related to the ongoing dispute over his contract buyout, which has been widely reported since his firing.