The University of Maryland has fired football coach DJ Durkin one day after his reinstatement, the school announced Wednesday evening.
Maryland has fired football coach DJ Durkin, a school spokeswoman confirmed. Durkin just told the team, according to a source. https://t.co/Sxa3hW3NZ4
— Adam Rittenberg (@ESPNRittenberg) October 31, 2018
In a statement, president Wallace D. Loh said:
“Since returning to campus after yesterday’s press conference, I have met with the leadership of the Student Government Association speaking on behalf of numerous student organizations; the Senate Executive Committee; Deans; department chairs; and campus leadership. The overwhelming majority of stakeholders expressed serious concerns about Coach DJ Durkin returning to the campus.
“The chair of the Board of Regents has publicly acknowledged that I had previously raised serious concerns about Coach Durkin’s return. This is not at all a reflection of my opinion of Coach Durkin as a person. However, a departure is in the best interest of the University, and this afternoon Coach Durkin was informed that the University will part ways.
Maryland offensive lineman Johnny Jordan, roomate of Jordan McNair, who died in June, says firing DJ Durkin was the right decision.
Maryland OL Johnny Jordan speaking pic.twitter.com/jBlEFXXWRl
— aj iaN (@DanielOyefusi) November 1, 2018
Durkin has approximately $8.5 million left on his deal. Per his contract, if Maryland does not fire him for cause, which the university is not doing, according to a spokesperson — he is owed 65 percent of the total, which is $5.53 million.
Half of the $5.53 million will be paid out in the first 60 days after his termination (by Dec. 31), and the rest will be paid on a monthly basis.