Breaking: Mike Locksley to return as head coach of Maryland football in 2026

Ahmed Ghafir
5 days ago
2 min read

After facing weeks of uncertainty, Mike Locksley is expected to return to serve as the head coach of Maryland football in 2026 for his eighth season as head coach, ESPN first reported.

The news comes one day after a 24-6 loss at Illinois, extending Maryland’s losing streak to six games and dropping the program to 2-14 in Big Ten play since the start of the 2024 season. The news also comes as athletic director Jim Smith told ESPN that Maryland plans to “significantly increase financial support to the program.”

"We are working to strengthen our NIL support for 2026 and beyond, and have already seen success for next year," Smith told ESPN. "We are prioritizing roster retention, recruiting and competing in the transfer portal."

That includes the freshmen class headlined by QB Malik Washington, DL Sidney Stewart and DL Zahir Mathis, along with 2026 five-star Zion Elee who has received continued outside interest – and taken one official visit – with the ongoing uncertainty about the long-term direction of Maryland football.

"We are optimistic about the young talent in our program and where we are in recruiting," Smith told ESPN.

Maryland is 37-47 in eight seasons under Mike Locksley and has yet to eclipse .500 in conference play, but is now two years removed from a third consecutive bowl win in as many seasons.

"Everyone involved with the football program is focused on giving Coach Locksley the resources to succeed in the Big Ten," Smith said.

In a letter released to the fanbase, Smith added "we must support and resource Maryland football in the same way our Big Ten peers do. A level playing field requires a level commitment."

Related Links