It appears the Kellen Winslow tenure as athletic director at Florida A&M will be coming to an end.
Winslow, who has been athletic director for less than a year, is planning to step down, according to published reports.
Nelson Townsend was named interim athletic director, the school announced.
Winslow, who was hired April 8 after Michael Smith left the program, had a stint dominated by controversial statements and actions.
During a public meeting in June, Winslow described the athletic department as being “broken” and maintained that the only way the school could rebound is to “tear it down, start over build it the right way.”
On Oct.28, Winslow fired then head coach Earl Holmes on the eve of the FAMU’s homecoming game against Norfolk State. A decision that drew the ire of Holmes himself, players and even prominent alums.
Days after the move, Winslow issued a letter of apology to those critical of the move.
“Upon my arrival, it was evident that we had numerous issues that required immediate attention and I focused my energies on addressing those issues,” Winslow wrote in a statement.
“Acting with the best of intentions and my zeal for positive changes, some of my actions were conveyed in a manner that were inconsistent with my goals and objectives and offended some members of the Rattler Community. To those I have offended, I offer my sincerest apologies.”
The Florida A&M University Board of Trustees committee later held an emergency meeting to discuss its vote of no-confidence in Winslow.
Winslow had been active in the search of the school’s next head coach. Former Kentucky head coach Joker Phillips, FAMU interim head coach Corey Fuller and Alcorn State offensive coordinator Willie Simmons were finalists for the vacant job.
“If they were interested yesterday, they are interested today,” Townsend said. “Whether it is football, baseball or basketball, coaches don’t come to work for one person. They come to coach for the university.”
Winslow spent time as vice president for athletics and wellness at Lakeland College in Plymouth, Wis., and was also athletic director at Central State for four years
Winslow played nine seasons with the San Diego Chargers. He earned All-Pro honors five times during his playing career.
