Maryland fires D.J. Durkin
D.J. Durkin’s reinstatement lasted one day before he was fired.
FILE – In this Sept. 3, 2016, file photo, Maryland head coach DJ Durkin gestures during the second half of an NCAA football game against Howard in College Park, Md. Though first-year coach DJ Durkin is known for his defensive prowess, Maryland is unbeaten because of an attack that has rung up 123 points, second-most in school history after three games. (AP Photo/Nick Wass, File)
October 31, 2018
One day after being reinstated by the Terrapin Athletics Department, Maryland football head coach D.J. Durkin has been fired.
Durkin had been put on administrative leave when his program was under investigation following the death of Terrapin player Jordan McNair. He suffered heat stroke during a workout in May and passed away on June 13.
“Since returning to campus after [Oct. 30]’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,” Maryland President Wallace Loh said in a statement. “The overwhelming majority of stakeholders expressed serious concerns about Coach D.J. 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.
“This is a difficult decision, but it is the right one for our entire university. I will devote the remaining months of my presidency to advancing the needed reforms in our Athletics Department that prioritize the safety and well-being of our student-athletes.”
Matt Canada will continue to serve as Maryland’s interim head coach.