Maryland Retains Mike Locksley Despite 2025 Struggles

Maryland football is entering the 2026 season with continuity at the helm, announcing that Mike Locksley will remain as head coach. The Terrapins struggled through a 4-6 campaign in 2025, including a six-game losing streak, but the school is backing Locksley and plans to significantly enhance financial support for the program.

The Terrapins started the season 4-0, including a 27-10 upset of Wisconsin, but they were unable to secure another Big Ten victory, dropping all six remaining conference games. The disappointing finish had raised questions about Locksley’s future, but Maryland’s administration decided that stability and investment in the program are the path forward.

Despite the losses, there were bright spots, particularly from true freshman quarterback Malik Washington. The 10-game starter has thrown for 2,294 yards with 13 touchdowns and seven interceptions, outperforming expectations and showing promise for the program’s future. Analysts suggest that without facing elite conference peers like Bryce Underwood and Julian Sayin, Washington would have been a strong contender for Freshman of the Year honors.

The decision to retain Locksley also reflects the university’s belief that, with increased resources, the program can return to competitiveness in the Big Ten. Athletic director Jim Smith underscored the commitment, emphasizing support for recruiting, roster retention, and NIL opportunities as part of the broader strategy.

1. University Support and Investment

Maryland is backing Locksley with more than just job security. ESPN’s Pete Thamel reported that the program will receive significant financial support aimed at strengthening its competitive position. The enhancements include resources for recruiting, transfer portal activity, and name, image, and likeness (NIL) opportunities for student-athletes. AD Jim Smith emphasized Locksley’s deep ties to the DMV and his prior successes with the program. From 2021-2023, Maryland achieved three consecutive bowl victories and posted three straight winning seasons, milestones the school views as a benchmark for future growth. Smith’s statement framed the investment as a necessary step in a changing college athletics landscape. With intensified competition, NIL considerations, and evolving recruiting dynamics, Locksley’s leadership requires institutional backing to maintain momentum. The school’s message is clear: Locksley has the trust of Maryland and the resources to build a sustainable, competitive program. This support sends a signal to current players, recruits, and the fan base that the Terrapins are committed to upward trajectory.

2. Locksley’s Track Record

Locksley, 55, has deep roots in Maryland football, first joining the program as running backs coach from 1997 to 2002. He later returned as offensive coordinator from 2012 to 2015 and served as interim head coach following Randy Edsall’s departure. In between stints at Maryland, Locksley gained national recognition as Alabama’s offensive coordinator under Nick Saban, winning the 2018 Broyles Award as the nation’s top assistant coach. His work at Alabama cemented his reputation as a creative offensive mind with the ability to develop elite talent. Since returning as Maryland’s head coach in 2019 to replace the fired D.J. Durkin, Locksley has led the program to historic achievements, including the three consecutive bowl wins noted by Smith. Those accomplishments remain a foundation for future success. Maryland’s decision to retain Locksley reflects both respect for his track record and confidence in his vision to navigate challenges, including roster development, NIL opportunities, and competitive Big Ten recruiting.

3. Looking Ahead to 2026

Locksley and his staff will begin preparing for the 2026 season with a renewed focus on building a consistent winner in the Big Ten. Freshman quarterback Malik Washington is expected to remain a central piece of the offense, providing continuity and potential breakout performance. The Terrapins will look to leverage the additional financial and structural support to improve roster depth and secure top-tier recruits. Program stability under Locksley is expected to aid in retention of current players and attract high-level transfer prospects. Maryland’s commitment signals that the administration believes in long-term growth rather than short-term reaction to setbacks. With backing from both the athletic department and university leadership, the Terrapins aim to return to postseason success and compete consistently in the conference. Fans and analysts alike will be watching to see how Locksley and Maryland capitalize on this renewed support, with expectations high for a competitive 2026 campaign.