Northwestern State Cancels Remainder Of 2023 Season, Head Coach Brad Laird Resigns

Northwestern State announced that the university has canceled the remainder of the 2023 football season. The news was first reported by Colin Vedros of KALB. 

The announcement comes after Northwestern State safety Ronnie Caldwell passed away earlier this year. The university cited the mental health of student-athletes as one of the primary reasons for its decision.

The university also announced that head coach Brad Laird has submitted his resignation. Laird was in his sixth season as head coach of Northwestern State. Laird finishes with an overall record of 16-40 (15-24 Southland) over his six seasons as head coach.

“Due to the loss of Ronnie and the emotional burden it has caused me, I don’t feel I can give my all to these players or this program,” Laird said in a statement. “Any coach will tell you that their players become like family, so the loss of Ronnie was like losing a son. I love this program and this university and I know it will persevere and move forward with the competitive spirit that is at the core of our DNA.”

Northwestern State finishes the season 0-6 (0-2 Southland). The remaining games against McNeese, Incarnate Word, Houston Christian, and Texas A&M-Commerce have all officially been canceled.

Defensive coordinator Weston Glaser will serve as interim head coach as the university begins the search for the next head coach.