According to multiple reports, Art Briles may not be done at Baylor after all.
Interim president David Garland acknowledged that some have expressed support for the idea of bringing Briles back — after a one-year suspension — in 2017.
Chip Brown of Horns Digest first reported the story, which said that the move is being driven by some of the programs largest donors, including those involved in funding the schools new $300 million football stadium.
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In May, Briles was technically suspended with “intent to terminate” in the wake of the program’s handling of sexual assault allegations against football players.
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A vote on the matter may come down to the board of regents, who held a conference call yesterday. A Baylor spokesperson confirmed that the call was not related to Briles.
#Baylor spokesperson finally confirms to #ESPN that no vote on Art Briles' future happened last night during BOR meeting
— Mark Schlabach (@Mark_Schlabach) June 14, 2016
“The meeting was scheduled before, and for a quite different issue,” Garland said.
USA TODAY reported that a vote regarding bringing Briles back would likely result in no action, and that the voices supporting a comeback represent a “small minority” of donors.
Citing a donor source, WFAA.com reported that boosters aren’t seeking an outright reinstatement, but want to offer Briles an opportunity to defend himself.
Baylor hired former Wake Forest coach Jim Grobe as an interim coach for 2016, but it’s unclear what Grobe’s status will be beyond next season.
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