More details have emerged regarding the firing of former Kent State coach Kenni Burns, who was let go Friday.
Burns was placed on administrative leave two weeks ago after a university investigation was launched against him. The investigation reportedly found he violated school policies for conflicts of interest, code of conduct and concerning card expenses, according to his termination letter obtained by The Athletic on Tuesday.
The Athletic noted the school claimed Burns showed “dishonesty in the performance of the duties” and he put the school in “public disrepute.”
Burns’ attorney, Lee Hutton III, told The Athletic that Burns still hasn’t received a firm reason for why he was fired. Hutton III also said his card purchases had already been reconciled with Kent State.
Burns led one of the worst football programs in college football the last two years, as the Golden Flashes finished with a 1-23 record under the former Minnesota running backs coach. Kent State’s lone win under Burns was a 38-10 win over Central Connecticut, an FCS program, in 2023.
Offensive coordinator Mark Carney will serve as the interim coach for the entirety of the 2025 season before the program launches a national search for its next coach, according to Kent State’s announcement.
Burns was notified of being placed on paid leave in March, with the note stating that he was being investigated for two wide-ranging sections of his contract, The Athletic reported. He was unable to use school facilities or contract players during the investigation.
“My family and I are saddened by the news today,” Burns wrote on social media Friday. “We are thankful for the relationships and connections we have made with the players, coaches, and staff over the past few years. The team bond we have is not transactional but that of a family. Kent G.R.I.T. will bind us forever, and for that I am thankful. I am proud of you all, and we will be rooting for you this season and beyond.”
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Kenni Burns fired from Kent State football for violating school policy