Who Is Brian Kelly (American football coach)? Age, Biography, and Wiki
Born on October 25, 1961, Brian Kelly is a distinguished American football coach renowned for his strategic acumen and leadership in college football. As of 2025, he is 63 years old and boasts an extensive coaching career that has spanned several prestigious programs. Kelly currently serves as the head coach of the LSU Tigers football team and has made a significant impact on college football over the years.
After beginning his coaching career in 1987 at Grand Valley State University, Kelly progressively climbed the ranks, becoming a celebrated figure at programs such as Central Michigan, Cincinnati, and Notre Dame. His commitment to player development and tactical innovation has earned him accolades and respect in the athletics community.
| Occupation | Football Players |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | October 25, 1961 |
| Age | 63 Years |
| Birth Place | Everett, Massachusetts, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Scorpio |
| Country | U.S |
Popularity
Brian Kelly (American football coach)'s Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
- Height: 5 feet 11 inches (180 cm)
- Weight: Approximately 210 pounds (95 kg)
- Body Measurements: Brian Kelly maintains a robust physique suitable for the demanding nature of coaching in football, reflecting his active lifestyle and commitment to health and fitness.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
As of 2025, Brian Kelly is married to his wife, Paqui Kelly. The couple has been together for several years and is often seen supporting each other at various events. They have three children together, which adds to their family dynamic as they navigate the demands of Kelly's coaching career. While Kelly tends to keep his personal life private, his family plays an essential role in his life and professional journey.
He attended St. John's Preparatory School in Danvers, Massachusetts. His father was a Boston politician. He was a four-year club football player at Assumption University as a linebacker. After graduating from Assumption in 1983 with a bachelor's degree in political science, he served as linebackers coach, defensive coordinator and softball coach from 1983 to 1986.
Net Worth and Salary
Brian Kelly's net worth is estimated to be around $25 million as of 2025, a reflection of his successful coaching career and lucrative contracts in the competitive landscape of college football. His annual salary at LSU is significantly substantial, reportedly in the range of $9 million per year. This financial success is a testament to his abilities as a coach and his contributions to the teams he has led.
On November 30, 2021, Kelly was named the 33rd head coach at Louisiana State University (LSU), replacing Ed Orgeron. Kelly cited "wanting to be with the best" and "the commitment to excellence, rich traditions, and unrivaled pride and passion of LSU Football" for the move. His contract more than tripled his previous salary, from his 2021 salary of $2.67 million to $9 million in 2022.
Career, Business and Investments
Brian Kelly's career trajectory showcases a remarkable rise through various levels of college football coaching. After establishing a winning tradition at Grand Valley State, he went on to achieve success at Central Michigan and Cincinnati, ultimately leading him to Notre Dame, where he solidified his status as a premier coach with multiple tenures and top-tier bowl game appearances.
In addition to coaching, Kelly has made strategic investments off the field, which contribute to his financial success. His involvement in athletics-related ventures and endorsements further supplements his income, reflecting his brand as a reputable figure in sports.
Brian Keith Kelly (born October 25, 1961) is an American college football coach. He is the head football coach at Louisiana State University (LSU), a position he has held since the 2022 season.
Kelly served as the head football coach at Grand Valley State University from 1991 to 2003, Central Michigan University from 2004 to 2006, the University of Cincinnati from 2006 to 2009, and the University of Notre Dame from 2010 to 2021. He led the Grand Valley State Lakers to consecutive NCAA Division II Football Championships in 2002 and 2003.
Kelly's 2012 Notre Dame team reached the 2013 BCS National Championship Game, while his 2018 and 2020 Fighting Irish teams made appearances in the College Football Playoff.
Social Network
Brian Kelly is an active figure on social media, utilizing platforms like Twitter and Instagram to engage with fans and share insights into his coaching philosophy and daily life. His social media presence allows him to connect with a broader audience, keeping fans informed about team updates and personal anecdotes.
- Twitter: @CoachBrianKelly
- Instagram: @briankelly
Education
Brian Kelly's foundation in coaching is grounded in his educational background. He graduated from Assumption College in Worcester, Massachusetts, with a bachelor's degree in education. This educational experience has equipped him with the knowledge and skills necessary to lead and mentor student-athletes effectively.
Kelly joined the Grand Valley State University staff in 1987 as a graduate assistant and defensive backs coach for Tom Beck and became the defensive coordinator and recruiting coordinator in 1989. Kelly took over as head coach in 1991. In his final three seasons the Lakers went 41–2, at one point winning 32 consecutive games.
The Lakers went 14–0 in 2002 en route to their first national title and went 14–1 in 2003 when they claimed their second national championship. Kelly was named the AFCA Division II Coach of the Year after each of these championship years.
