Monday morning became an historic date in the Kirk Ferentz era at the University of Iowa. Longtime football Strength and Conditioning Coordinator Chris Doyle and the University of Iowa have agreed to part ways, just days after Doyle’s son and Iowa Linebacker, Dillon Doyle, announced he would be transferring from the program.
The decision comes after numerous African-American football players, who formerly trained with Doyle during their collegiate days, came forward with allegations of racial injustice and mistreatment. Last week, Head Coach Kirk Ferentz announced that the University would be conducting an investigation into the plethora of claims. Doyle was then placed on administrative leave. However, the mutual agreement announced today has sealed Doyle’s fate, as far as his dealings with Iowa Football are concerned.
According to Stadium.com reporter Brett McMurphy, Iowa will pay Doyle $1.1 million as a buyout for the remaining portion of his contract. He will also receive full health benefits for the next 15 months.
Kansas City law firm Husch Blackwell has also been hired to conduct an independent review of the players’ allegations, per the University.
Iowa Athletic Director Gary Barta released the following statement in conjunction with the settlement:
“The University of Iowa has reached a separation agreement with Executive Director of Football and Head Strength and Conditioning Coach Chris Doyle. We wish Chris the best moving forward in his career.”
University of Iowa Athletic Director Gary Barta
Chris Doyle, who claimed total innocence last week with regards to the allegations, left the program today, still without issuing any form of a public apology former players or the community. Doyle released the following statement Monday:
“Iowa City has been home to our family for 21 years. I am grateful Iowa football provided an opportunity to work with incredible players, coaches, and support staff. I have worked diligently to make a positive impact on the lives of student-athletes, support them as they speak out, and look forward to continued growth. I am confident that my record and character will be confirmed in the course of the independent review. The University and I have reached an agreement and it is time to move on from Iowa football. My family and I are looking forward to the next chapter.”
Former Iowa football Strength and Conditioning Coordinator Chris Doyle
It is unclear who will replace Doyle in the strength room at Iowa. Veteran staff member Raimond Braithwaite has been serving as the interim Strength and Conditioning Coordinator since Doyle was placed on leave.
A press conference with Gary Barta is scheduled for 1 p.m. Monday afternoon.
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