A Call for New Leadership and a Renewed Direction for Liberty Football
Posted: November 17th, 2025, 8:15 am
Hello Flames Nation,
I’m a proud Liberty University graduate and have followed Liberty Athletics closely since the Danny Rocco FCS era. Over the years we’ve seen great progress, growing expectations, and a fan base that truly believes Liberty can consistently compete at the highest levels. That’s why it’s disappointing to see so little discussion or excitement surrounding the football program right now.
After watching closely, here are my observations about the current direction under Coach Chadwell:
1. Loyal to a Fault – Especially on Defense
Chadwell’s commitment to his coordinators, particularly on the defensive side of the ball, has brought this team to a new low. The defensive scheme and execution have regressed significantly, and this staff has not shown the ability to develop players or adjust when needed. This loyalty is hurting the program.
2. Recruiting Has Taken a Major Step Back
Hugh Freeze proved that Liberty can recruit elite talent. Under Chadwell, recruiting has not only dropped off — it feels like the staff isn’t even trying to push into higher-level recruiting battles. For a program with our resources, that is unacceptable.
3. A Coach Who Looks Burned Out
In multiple interviews, Chadwell has openly stated he “lost his joy” after the large wave of transfers last season. Watching him speak to the media now, he genuinely looks unhappy and drained. If the head coach has lost passion, it’s nearly impossible for the program to move forward.
4. Liberty’s Investment Deserves Better Results
Our athletic budget, facilities, and financial commitment far exceed those of the programs we are struggling against. We are paying Chadwell millions of dollars, yet the results on the field do not match that level of investment or expectation.
My Plea to Ian McCaw
I strongly believe that changes must be made immediately if Liberty football is going to get back on track. I do not have confidence that Chadwell will remove underperforming staff or elevate recruiting to the level this program requires. Liberty has too much potential to settle for mediocrity.
We all want Liberty to succeed, and I hope the administration takes decisive action to restore the trajectory we were once on.
I’m a proud Liberty University graduate and have followed Liberty Athletics closely since the Danny Rocco FCS era. Over the years we’ve seen great progress, growing expectations, and a fan base that truly believes Liberty can consistently compete at the highest levels. That’s why it’s disappointing to see so little discussion or excitement surrounding the football program right now.
After watching closely, here are my observations about the current direction under Coach Chadwell:
1. Loyal to a Fault – Especially on Defense
Chadwell’s commitment to his coordinators, particularly on the defensive side of the ball, has brought this team to a new low. The defensive scheme and execution have regressed significantly, and this staff has not shown the ability to develop players or adjust when needed. This loyalty is hurting the program.
2. Recruiting Has Taken a Major Step Back
Hugh Freeze proved that Liberty can recruit elite talent. Under Chadwell, recruiting has not only dropped off — it feels like the staff isn’t even trying to push into higher-level recruiting battles. For a program with our resources, that is unacceptable.
3. A Coach Who Looks Burned Out
In multiple interviews, Chadwell has openly stated he “lost his joy” after the large wave of transfers last season. Watching him speak to the media now, he genuinely looks unhappy and drained. If the head coach has lost passion, it’s nearly impossible for the program to move forward.
4. Liberty’s Investment Deserves Better Results
Our athletic budget, facilities, and financial commitment far exceed those of the programs we are struggling against. We are paying Chadwell millions of dollars, yet the results on the field do not match that level of investment or expectation.
My Plea to Ian McCaw
I strongly believe that changes must be made immediately if Liberty football is going to get back on track. I do not have confidence that Chadwell will remove underperforming staff or elevate recruiting to the level this program requires. Liberty has too much potential to settle for mediocrity.
We all want Liberty to succeed, and I hope the administration takes decisive action to restore the trajectory we were once on.