Former West Virginia HC Neal Brown releases statement following firing

Neal Brown was fired by West Virginia earlier this week, following a 52-15 loss on Saturday at Texas Tech.

The loss brought Brown’s career record in Morgantown down to 37–35 over six seasons. Evidently, the Mountaineers felt they had to make a change, and it started with Brown losing his job. Still, he has a ton of love for the program.

After sitting with the news for a couple of days, Brown took to social media to share a statement on the matter. He handled the entire situation with class, praising West Virginia’s fanbase and wishing the team well in their future endeavors.

“It has been a great honor to serve as West Virginia’s Head Football Coach,” Brown wrote. “I am extremely proud to be associated with all the incredible young men who were part of our program over the past six years. This team, like those before them, showed up every day, resilient, united, and determined. I love this group and know they will navigate this transition with class and integrity. Our family was proud to call West Virginia home.

“Mountaineer Nation is a dedicated and passionate fan base. With Wren’s leadership, and the foundation we worked so hard to create, I know the program is poised to embrace the challenges of today’s
ever-changing football climate and make the investments necessary to advance.

“I am extremely grateful for our tremendous staff and their families. You gave your all and Brooke and I will always be here for you. To our team, stay focused and go win our bowl game! Let’s GO!”

Moreover, West Virginia was expected to take the next step in 2024, as they received votes in the AP preseason poll. But the Mountaineers faltered in the season opener against rival Penn State, falling 34-12, and never finding their footing. Brown’s final WVU team posted a 6-6 season and is bowl eligible. 

West Virginia finished with a 5-4 record in the Big 12 and No. 9 in league standings. His time in Morgantown certainly didn’t end the way he expected. Time will tell where his next shot comes as the dust settles on his exit.

On3’s Pete Nakos contributed to this article.