After joining Ohio State, Oregon sued football coach Carlos Locklyn in a buyout dispute.
Oregon Sues Former Running Backs Coach Carlos Locklyn Over Buyout Dispute
In a significant development in college football coaching dynamics, the University of Oregon has initiated legal action against Carlos Locklyn, its former running backs coach, who departed for Ohio State in April 2024. The lawsuit centers on a buyout dispute, with Oregon alleging that Locklyn owes a substantial sum for terminating his contract prematurely.
Background: Locklyn’s Tenure at Oregon
Carlos Locklyn joined the Oregon Ducks as running backs coach in 2022, following a successful stint at Western Kentucky. Under his guidance, Oregon’s rushing attack flourished, ranking among the nation’s best. In 2023, the Ducks’ running game was particularly notable, averaging 5.91 yards per carry, placing them third nationally. Key players like Bucky Irving and Noah Whittington thrived under Locklyn’s mentorship, contributing to Oregon’s offensive success.
Recognizing his contributions, Oregon extended Locklyn’s contract in March 2024, securing his services through the 2026 season. The extension included a raise, reflecting his value to the program.
The Move to Ohio State and the Buyout Clause
Despite the recent extension, Locklyn accepted an offer from Ohio State in April 2024 to become their new running backs coach, succeeding Tony Alford. This move triggered a buyout clause in his contract with Oregon. Initially, if Locklyn had departed before a specified date, he would have owed Oregon approximately $733,333. However, by leaving after the stipulated date, the buyout amount was reduced to $366,667, which Ohio State agreed to pay on Locklyn’s behalf.
Oregon’s Lawsuit
The University of Oregon has filed a lawsuit against Carlos Locklyn, alleging breach of contract. The university contends that Locklyn’s departure violated the terms of his agreement, and it is seeking the payment of the buyout amount. The legal action underscores the importance of adhering to contractual obligations in collegiate athletics and the financial implications of such agreements.
Locklyn’s Response
Carlos Locklyn has not publicly commented on the lawsuit. However, in a social media post following his departure from Oregon, he expressed gratitude for his time with the Ducks and emphasized the strength required to make difficult decisions. His statement read, “Walking away from something has nothing to do with weakness and everything to do with strength!!! #WalkOnCoach #JustifiedByGodRansomPaid.”
Implications for College Football Coaching Contracts
This legal dispute highlights the complexities of coaching contracts in college football, particularly concerning buyout clauses. Such clauses are standard provisions that protect institutions from abrupt departures and ensure financial compensation. The outcome of this lawsuit may set a precedent for future cases involving coaching contract disputes and buyout enforcement.
The lawsuit filed by the University of Oregon against Carlos Locklyn represents a significant event in the realm of college football coaching. As the legal proceedings unfold, they will likely attract attention from other programs and legal experts, offering insights into the enforcement of coaching contracts and the financial dynamics of collegiate athletics.
