From EssentiallySports · Ameek Abdullah Jamal · · 1m
Maryland Fires Defensive Coach to Avoid $9M Payoff
Maryland fires defensive coordinator to avoid $9.2m payout but struggles to fix season.
In brief
Maryland fires defensive coordinator to avoid $9.2m payout but struggles to fix season. Maryland fires defensive coordinator Ted Monachino to avoid $9.2m payout but remains winless in Big Ten play. Originally reported by EssentiallySports.
Maryland fires defensive coordinator
Maryland fires defensive coordinator Ted Monachino to avoid $9.2m payout but remains winless in Big Ten play.
“I appreciate Ted’s hard work and dedication to our program during his time in College Park”
Monachino’s dismissal timing
Monachino was dismissed on Sunday, October 18, 2026, after a home defeat against Rutgers.
Rutgers game collapse
Maryland lost 37-30 to Rutgers after a 23-13 halftime lead.
Defensive struggles
Maryland defense allowed 442 yards and 219 points in last five games.
Locksley’s contract
Locksley’s contract includes $9.2m buyout if dismissed without cause.
New defensive staff
Aazaar Abdul-Rahim takes over as defensive coordinator for remaining games.
Maryland’s record
Maryland sits at 2-5 overall and 0-4 in Big Ten play.
What matters most
Maryland fires defensive coordinator Ted Monachino to avoid $9.2m payout but remains winless in Big Ten play.
