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Five college football coaches facing potential firings in 2026

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 29, 2026, 12:05 PM

Last updated Aug 29, 2026

Five college football coaches facing potential firings in 2026

Summary

As the 2026 college football season approaches, several coaches are under scrutiny following a tumultuous 2025. Fifteen head coaches were fired during the last season, resulting in a combined $270 million in buyouts. Among those at risk this year are Shane Beamer of South Carolina, who has struggled to achieve a bowl game, and Mike Locksley of Maryland, with a disappointing record amidst inconsistent performances. Dave Aranda from Baylor, Luke Fickell of Wisconsin, and Dabo Swinney from Clemson also face pressure to improve results, with Swinney's long tenure and high buyout making his situation complex despite recent underachievement. Teams are increasingly willing to make changes in coaching staff as the season starts.

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By the Numbers

•Five coaches are highlighted as potential firings before the 2026 season.
•Fifteen coaches were let go in 2025, costing $270 million in buyouts.
•Beamer and Locksley have recorded disappointing seasons, affecting their job security.
•Dabo Swinney's high buyout complicates his status despite recent struggles.
•Programs are more willing to dismiss coaches than in prior years.

Latest Updates

12:05 PMYahoo Sports — College football hot seat: 5 coaches who could be fired in 2026

What they're saying

"
The 2025 college football season produced a historic coaching carousel, with 15 FBS head coaches fired without cause and creating a combined buyout price tag of roughly $270 million. From James Franklin at Penn State to Brian Kelly at LSU (with a staggering $54 million buyout), schools threw record-setting sums at the problem of removing…
— Yahoo Sports

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