Wisconsin releases official statement on Paul Chryst firing, name Jim Leonhard interim head coach

Shortly after news spread that Wisconsin head coach Paul Chryst was being replaced, the Badgers released their official statement. Chryst’s firing was reported on Sunday evening after he began the season with a 2-3 record, despite his career record with the Badgers being 67-26.

Wisconsin releases statement on Paul Chryst’s firing

“Defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard has been named interim head coach of the Wisconsin football team, UW Director of Athletics Chris McIntosh announced Sunday. Leonhard replaces Paul Chryst, who was in his eighth season as the Badgers’ head coach,” read the school’s official release.

“After a heartfelt and authentic conversation with Coach Chryst about what is in the long-term best interest of our football program, I have concluded that now is the time for a change in leadership,” McIntosh said. “Paul is a man of integrity who loves his players. I have great respect and admiration for Paul and the legacy of him and his family at the University of Wisconsin.

“I also have confidence in Jim Leonhard to guide the program for the remainder of the season. There is still a lot of season left to play and I know Jim will do a great job while the program is under his leadership.”

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Leonhard has been a member of the Wisconsin coaching staff for seven years, and is currently in his sixth season as defensive coordinator for the team. A former All-American safety for the Badgers, he tied the school record with 21 career interceptions as a player. After going undrafted in the NFL, he played professionally for ten years with six different NFL teams and started in 73 games.

“I appreciate Chris McIntosh placing his trust in me to lead our team,” Leonhard said of being named interim coach. “My focus right now is on our players and moving forward with preparing them for our game on Saturday at Northwestern.

“I owe a lot to Coach Chryst. Everyone in our program does. He gave me my first coaching job, and for that I am forever grateful. As a Badger, I thank him for his impact on our football program and our players over many years.”