COLLEGE PARK, Md. — DJ Durkin has been fired as Maryland’s football coach, one day after being reinstated by the school.
His dismissal comes after the decision to bring him back on Tuesday was met with ire by students, players and state politicians.
Durkin was placed on administrative leave Aug. 11 while the University System of Maryland board of regents waited for the results of a report on the culture of the program.
Played Died Earlier This Year
On Durkin’s watch, a player died during spring practice and there were numerous reports of bullying by the coaching staff.
After receiving that report, the board decided to bring him back, saying he was “unfairly blamed for the dysfunction in the athletic department.”
But some state officials said Durkin should have been fired, and one called the decision an “embarrassment.”
Canada Expected to Lead Team
Matt Canada is expected to resume the role of interim coach. Maryland is 5-3 heading into Saturday’s game against Michigan State.
Durkin was placed on administrative leave after offensive lineman Jordan McNair collapsed during practice, which spawned an investigation into the potential dangerous culture of the football program.
Parents of Dead Player Wanted Durkin Fired
The attorney for McNair’s parents in August had called for Durkin to be fired.
After Durkin’s return was announced Tuesday, McNair’s father, Marty McNair, said, “I feel like I’ve been punched in the stomach and someone spit in my face.”
