There are now two Big Ten coaches on leave just two weeks before the first Division I college football game.
Maryland has placed head coach DJ Durkin on administrative leave after allegations of unacceptable behaviors by members of our football staff detailed in recent media reports, athletic director Damon Evans announced in an open letter on Saturday.
Evans' full letter:
Dear Terps,
I am extremely concerned by the allegations of unacceptable behaviors by members of our football staff detailed in recent media reports. We are committed to fully investigating the program.
At this time, the best decision for our football program is to place Maryland Head Football Coach DJ Durkin on leave so we can properly review the culture of the program. This is effective immediately. Matt Canadawill serve as interim head coach.
The external review into the tragic death of Jordan McNair continues, and we have committed to releasing publicly the report being prepared by an independent and national expert.
The safety and well-being of our student-athletes is our highest priority. These alleged behaviors are not consistent with the values I expect all of our staff to adhere to and we must do better.
You will be hearing from me as our work continues to rebuild the culture of respect in our football program.
The move follows the tragic death of Maryland football player Jordan McNair who died of heatstroke following a team workout, which reportedly fit into a pattern in a toxic program.
