Wyoming Seeks New Running Backs Coach After Kirkwood’s Departure

The University of Wyoming football team is in search of a new running backs coach following the unexpected departure of Donnell Kirkwood, who left the program on the opening day of spring practice in Laramie, 7220sports reports.

Kirkwood, who was hired just 82 days ago, is reportedly heading to Washington State, where he will reunite with former University of North Dakota offensive coordinator Danny Freund.

Kirkwood’s brief tenure at Wyoming was marked by his emphasis on work ethic and discipline. At his introductory press conference, Kirkwood emphasized the importance of bringing a new mentality to the team, stating that success depended more on effort than on talent.

“It’ll be every day, every day,” he said.

Kirkwood highlighted the importance of hard work in achieving results.

Wyoming head coach Jay Sawvel expressed disappointment over the timing of Kirkwood’s exit, particularly as the team had just begun spring practices.

“It’s unfortunate timing,” Sawvel said.

He noted that Kirkwood’s move wasn’t financially motivated, despite the reported raise he will receive at Washington State. Sawvel also acknowledged that Kirkwood’s departure would create a gap, but expressed confidence in the program’s ability to adapt and continue forward.

Kirkwood’s departure is not the first instance of a coach leaving Wyoming shortly after being hired. The team has experienced similar situations in the past, including the quick exits of offensive line coaches AJ Blazek and Klayton Adams in recent years. Additionally, Washington State has a history of attracting Wyoming coaches, with former Wyoming defensive coordinator Jake Dickert leaving for Pullman in 2019, and several other assistant coaches following him.

Despite the setback, Sawvel remains optimistic about finding a suitable replacement for Kirkwood and continuing to develop the team’s running backs.

“We’ll do a good job,” Sawvel said.

He focused on fundamentals and key aspects of the game such as footwork and hand placement as the team moves forward with spring practice.

The search for a new running backs coach will continue as the team adapts to this change during the spring session.