Baylor athletic director on leave of absence due to ‘personal reasons’

WACO, Texas (KWTX) — Baylor Vice President and Director of Intercollegiate Athletics Mack Rhoades is on “a leave of absence for personal reasons,” starting on November 12, 2025, according to Baylor University.

According to a Baylor spokesperson, Rhoades is on paid leave and the length of Rhoades’ leave of absence is anticipated to be around four weeks.

The College Football Playoff (CFP) Committee spokesperson also said that Rhoades will be stepping down from the CFP committee.

“Jovan Overshown and Cody Hall have been designated co-interim ADs under Rhoades’ previously submitted emergency succession plan to the University,” Baylor University said.

The University says they will not be commenting further at this time.

In response to moves to fill the vacated positions on the CFP committee and to determine who will serve as the acting chair, a CFP committee spokesperson said, “We are working on steps now.”

According to ESPN, the university received allegations involving Rhoades on Monday, November 10, 2025.

“The allegations do not involve Title IX, student welfare or NCAA rules and do not involve the football program, indicating it is a separate incident from Rhoades’ alleged altercation with a football player during a September game,” Baylor told ESPN.

According to an Outkick report, Rhoades allegedly approached tight end Michael Trigg before kickoff and used profanity while asking why he was wearing a yellow shirt during a game on Sept. 20 against Arizona State.

The game was promoted as a blackout, and players were wearing all black uniforms.

Following the game, Rhoades allegedly grabbed an assistant coach’s arm, then his shoulder and neck area, and verbally confronted the coach in view of multiple Baylor staff members and team family members, according to the Outkick report.

KWTX confirmed that Baylor launched an investigation into the matter and released a statement acknowledging the incident occurred more than a month ago.

“These reports were thoroughly reviewed and investigated in accordance with University policies, appropriate actions were taken, and the matter is now closed,” the University said. “Mr. Rhoades has expressed regret over his emotions and recognizes his conduct at that moment was not reflective of our Christian mission and values.”

The statement continued: “Mr. Rhoades is an important part of our Baylor Family, and we look forward to his continued leadership of our Athletics Department. We remain committed to ensuring a respectful and accountable environment for all of our student-athletes, coaches, and staff.”

According to the Outkick article, at least eight people witnessed the encounter and HR complaints were filed.

Trigg scored two touchdowns in the game, but Baylor lost when Arizona State kicked a field goal in the final seconds.

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