Ohio State Football: Current RBs Coach Carlos Locklyn Faces $400,000 Lawsuit from Oregon for Breach of Contract
Former Ducks Assistant Accused of Breaking Contract Terms After Jump to Buckeyes
COLUMBUS, OHIO — On Wednesday night, some interesting news hit the headlines. Regarding Carlos Locklyn. Who’s now the running backs coach at Ohio State University, is facing legal action from his former employer, the University of Oregon, over an alleged breach of contract.
On April 1, 2025, Oregon filed a civil lawsuit claiming Locklyn failed to pay the full buyout amount required when he left the Ducks to join the Buckeyes’ coaching staff in early 2024. According to the contract Locklyn signed with Oregon, he was required to pay 50% of his remaining salary if he departed before the end of the agreement—amounting to approximately $400,000.
However, Locklyn only sent $200,000, claiming that this amount satisfied his contractual obligation. That payment, made via personal check on May 28, 2024, was rejected by Oregon, which is now seeking the full amount plus 9% interest.
Locklyn’s legal team disputes Oregon’s interpretation of the buyout clause. His attorney, John Berg, stated that Locklyn “lawfully terminated his employment agreement with the University of Oregon and promptly delivered a check fully satisfying any possible obligation.” Berg criticized Oregon’s stance as “legally untenable,” asserting that Locklyn met all conditions of his departure.
Locklyn was a highly regarded part of the Ducks’ staff, helping lead one of the most productive rushing offenses in college football. He coached standout backs like Bucky Irving and Jordan James and was considered instrumental in Oregon’s offensive success during his tenure.
Oregon’s lawsuit highlights the growing trend of universities enforcing buyout clauses as the coaching movement continues to increase across college football. The case could influence how such clauses are interpreted and enforced in future contracts.
A formal ruling on the case has not yet been issued.