Gardner-Webb head football coach Cris Reisert has stepped down, the university announced Monday.
“We thank Cris for his contributions and commitment to our program,” Vice President and Director of Athletics Brendan Fahey said in a statement released by the school. “We wish him and his family the best with their new opportunity.”
Gardner-Webb confirmed that a national search is underway for Reisert’s successor.
According to multiple reports, Reisert is expected to join former Mercer head coach Mike Jacobs’ staff at Toledo, where he will serve as the offensive coordinator.
Reisert led the Runnin’ Bulldogs through a period of transition into the OVC/Big South Football Association and helped stabilize the program after Tre Lamb left for the East Tennessee State job in 2023. Gardner-Webb posted a 7-6 record this past season after a 4-8 campaign in Reisert’s debut.
Reisert’s departure creates an offseason opening at one of North Carolina’s FCS programs as teams continue to reshape their coaching staffs ahead of the 2026 season.
This story will be updated as more information becomes available.
