COLLEGE PARK, Md. — Maryland named Aazaar Abdul-Rahim interim football coach Wednesday after announcing that Michael Locksley would step down immediately under a mutual agreement.
Locksley was in his eighth season with the Terrapins and had a 39-54 record at College Park. His teams won three bowl games between 2021 and 2023, according to Maryland Athletics.
“Following thoughtful conversations with Coach Locksley, we agreed that a coaching change was in the best interest of Coach Locksley and the Maryland football program,” athletic director Jim Smith said.
In thanking Locksley, Smith pointed to his care for players and the relationships he built throughout Maryland and the surrounding region. Smith said players and staff would receive support during the transition, with stability for the team the immediate priority.
Abdul-Rahim returned to Maryland in 2024 after an earlier stint on its coaching staff from 2016 through 2018. Since returning, he has coached cornerbacks and held the titles of co-defensive coordinator and associate head coach of the defense.
The Washington native is now in the third season of that second stint. He graduated from San Diego State in 1998 after playing there for three seasons.
Locksley thanked the players, staff, alumni and supporters he had come to know during his years with the program.
“Maryland football and this community mean a great deal to me,” he said.
He said he was proud of what the program had accomplished and remained invested in the players’ success and well-being.
“They deserve our continued support, and I will always want the best for them and Maryland football,” Locksley said.
University President Darryll J. Pines thanked Locksley for 18 years of service to the university, athletic department and football program. He credited Locksley with rebuilding Maryland football and bringing its community and fan base together during a difficult period for the university.
A national search for a permanent head coach will begin immediately. Maryland said it would keep the search highly confidential while seeking a coach who can develop players, recruit at an elite level and build a program capable of competing for championships.
Smith said he and Pines were committed to providing the investment, infrastructure and resources the program needs. Maryland did not announce a timetable for hiring the next coach.
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