Fired Coaches Land New Roles Quickly

The college football coaching carousel continues its rapid spin, with several prominent figures securing new roles shortly after their departures following the 2025 season. James Franklin, previously with Penn State, has accepted the head coaching position at Virginia Tech, reportedly leaving nearly $40 million in buyout money on the table. This move signals his eagerness to remain a high-profile coach.

Other notable coaches have also found new opportunities. Billy Napier, who was dismissed from Florida, has taken the head coaching job at James Madison, returning to the Group of Six ranks where he previously had success. Mark Stoops, the winningest coach in Kentucky history, is now a special assistant at Texas, joining Steve Sarkisian's staff.

Trent Dilfer has returned to Lipscomb Academy High School, the same institution he left in 2022. Tim Beck is heading to South Florida as offensive coordinator, and Trent Bray will serve as defensive coordinator at Washington State. Brian Kelly, despite a successful record at LSU, is now an unpaid consultant at Memphis, reflecting on his experiences.

Coaches like Hugh Freeze and Mike Gundy were last seen enjoying time off or in analyst roles, respectively, as programs like Auburn and Oklahoma State moved on. Sherrone Moore was fired from Michigan following an off-field incident.