LSU athletics projects $26 million deficit for 2026-27 fiscal year

LSU athletics is forecasting a $26 million deficit for the 2026-27 fiscal year, according to a report from LSU President Wade Rousse. The university received $44 million in losses during the previous fiscal year, which exceeded initial projections following the start of revenue sharing last fall. In the past six years, LSU's athletics department has accrued a deficit of $177.5 million in combined budgets.

The university has made significant changes to its budget, including firing former head football coach Brian Kelly, who owes a $54 million buyout, and dismissing athletics director Scott Woodward and men's basketball coach Matt McMahon. The NIL deals and coaching changes have resulted in a financial gap that requires the creation of a new revenue-generating model.

Rousse stated that the university is preparing to announce this plan soon and is considering placing its broadcast rights money in a separate entity to invest and generate income.