By Jackson Schneider
LAWRENCE, Kan. — According to multiple sources, the University of Kansas has removed Athletics Director Jeff Long of his duties.
Brett McMurphy, a college football reporter and analyst with Stadium, reported the firing via Twitter on Wednesday afternoon, less than 48 hours after Kansas and Head Football Coach Les Miles "mutually agreed to part ways."
The tweet from McMurphy breaking the news can be viewed here.
An official release has yet to come from the Kansas Athletic Department, but one is expected in the near future. The lead priority for the next AD will be to lead the search for the next head football coach of the Jayhawks
UPDATE --
Kansas Athletics released statements following the removal of Jeff Long as Athletic Director.
In his statement, an open letter to Jayhawk fans, Long stated that he and Kansas Chancellor Douglas Girod mutually agreed that it was in the best interest of the university that he step away from his post.
"It is not easy, but I leave KU with a heavy heart and profound confidence that I have always acted in the best interests of Kansas Athletics. I have done everything in my control to move Kansas Athletics forward in a positive manner, that’s what makes this most difficult," said Long in the release.
Long went on to thank the University of Kansas, student-athletes, and Jayhawk fans for their support during his time at the helm of the athletic department.
Chancellor Girod also released a statement on the leadership change, doubling down that Long and the University of Kansas mutually agreed that it was in KU's best interest to have him step away.
"I want to wholeheartedly thank Jeff for his service to KU. When we hired Jeff, he was charged with modernizing our athletics department and ensuring our coaches and student-athletes continue to have the resources they need to succeed. This was no easy task, and he far exceeded our expectations," stated the Kansas Chancellor in the release. "Jeff guided Kansas Athletics to progress in student-athlete healthcare, diversity and inclusion, and student-athlete academic achievement, all while managing significant challenges not of his own making. Most important, Jeff was unwaveringly dedicated to students, coaches and staff, and he represented KU with integrity and compassion. For that, we thank him, and we wish him the very best."
Girod went on to name Kurt Watson as interim Athletic Director at Kansas, stating that Watson is, "one of KU’s most trusted advisors."
Kansas will begin an immediate search for its next Athletic Director, lead by Chancellor Girod and a team of alumni advisors consisting of Linda Ellis Sims, Ray Evans, John Ballard, and Wayne Simien.
"Once a new athletics director is in place, that individual will determine next steps related to our football coach position. To assist the new athletics director make that determination once he or she arrives, I am assembling a committee of advisors who will be ready to help when called upon," said Girod.
The full release, with open letters from Jeff Long and Douglas Girod can be read here.