Mike Locksley’s Maryland Terrapins are fresh off a 24-6 loss to the Illinois Fighting Illini last weekend. The Terrapins are now on a six-game losing streak, as mounting public apathy and criticism of Locksley’s tenure continue to grow.
Meanwhile, the discussion about whether Locksley will return to the Terrapins for his eighth season next year continues to hit the headlines amid their recent struggle.
Fans React to Maryland’s Big Move About Mike Locksley’s Future Amid Continuous Struggle
On Sunday, Maryland athletic director Jim Smith announced that Locksley would continue as head coach in 2026.
“Coach Locksley bleeds Maryland, has deep and unmatched ties to the DMV, and he has led this program to success unprecedented in our 133-year football history – including three consecutive bowl victories – with three straight winning seasons from 2021-23,” Smith said in an open letter to Terrapin fans.
“Those accomplishments demonstrate what this program is capable of when aligned and supported.
“But in the two short years since that run, the entire environment of college athletics has transformed. To continue building on this foundation, Coach Locksley needs – and deserves – the full support of our department, our university, and all of Terp Nation. We are fully committed to giving him and our student-athletes the resources and investments necessary to succeed.”
Smith is in his first year as athletic director after replacing Damon Evans in July. Before the Illinois loss, he noted that Locksley’s future would be evaluated at season’s end.
When Maryland fell to Illinois, many believed the program would finally separate from Locksley. However, the Terrapins opted to keep him, and the decision has drawn backlash from Maryland fans frustrated with the program’s downturn.
“Embarrassing,” a fan wrote.
“I’m not going to any home games,” one said.
“@TerpsADJimSmith @kmills34 you will have zero support from the fanbase next season if you keep the dumpster fire that is Mike Locksley,” a person said.
“This has to be fake right?” one quipped.
“Locksley has had plenty of time to turn this program around, and he hasn’t. Terrible decision,” a fan added.
After starting the season 4-0, the Terrapins have slipped to 4-6 and haven’t won since September 20. However, Smith attempted to defend keeping Locksley, saying the coach “believes strongly in this team’s potential.”
Smith also said that he is working with Locksley to strengthen Maryland’s NIL backing, with a focus on roster retention, recruiting, and the transfer portal.
Locksley is 37-47 overall in seven seasons at Maryland and 17-46 in Big Ten competition. The Terrapins are currently No. 65 in the PFSN College Football Playoff Ranking. His existing contract came after an amendment signed in April 2023, after an 8-5 season in 2022. His estimated buyout if dismissed without cause is around $13 million.