Ed Reed announces departure from Bethune-Cookman as head coach

Ed Reed will not coach Bethune-Cookman this season as the Hall of Famer announced his departure from the program.

According to a statement released by Reed, the Miami Hurricanes legend revealed he and the school could not come to an agreement on the contract based on the verbal agreement. Reed was previously upset with the lack of usable facilities up to standard at the school.

“Bethune-Cookman University has been working with my legal team to craft contract terms with the language and resources we knew were needed to build a successful football program,” Reed said.

However, Reed opened up on the falling out with the school.

With great sadness… pic.twitter.com/bhcusZIsW9

— Ed Reed (@TwentyER) January 21, 2023

“It’s my desire to not only coach football, but to be an agent of change that most people just talk about being,” Reed said. “However, after weeks of negotiations, I’ve been informed that the University won’t be ratifying my contract and won’t make good on the agreement we had in principle. Which had provisions and resources best needed to support the student athletes.

“I was committed to coaching and cultivating a relationship with the University, Players, Community and the Fans. It’s extremely disappointing this won’t be happening.”

Reed said he would continue his efforts through the “Ed Reed Foundation.” However, the Hurricanes and Ravens legend won’t step on the sideline for the HBCU this coming fall.

“Thank you to those who share my vision and believe that greatness can be achieved with the right environment and surroundings,” Reed said. “Although we couldn’t make things work at BCU, the goal and mission are still the same. We serve to lead – lead to serve. We will continue with our pillars: Respect, Educate, Empower, Dream.

“Our efforts will remain about the kids through our foundation via our health and wellness programs, camps and fundraising. We won’t stop changing lives for the better, as we’ve done for over 20 years!”

After Deion Sanders found success at an HBCU, the Wildcats looked to a comparable candidate in Reed to take over a program that just finished the 2022 season at 2-9.

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Reed previously served as Miami’s Chief of Staff in and senior football advisor over the last three seasons.