One Georgia high school football program is searching for a new head football coach.
The Rome City Schools Board of Education approved the release of Bill Stewart from his contract and head coaching responsibilities
at Rome High School during its Nov. 10 meeting, the district announced Tuesday.
"Rome City Schools appreciates Coach Stewart’s time, dedication, and service to our student-athletes and the Rome High School football program," the district said in a statement. "We wish him the best in his future endeavors."
The district said additional information regarding interim leadership and its search for a new head coach would be announced at a later date.
Stewart's departure comes after a difficult season for the Wolves, who finished 2-8 in 2026 after reaching the Class 5A state semifinals a year earlier.
Despite the coaching change, the Rome job figures to remain one of the more attractive openings in Georgia. Just a year ago, Rome went 11-3 and finished the season as a top 20 team in Georgia. Its playoff run ended with a 37-6 loss to eventual state finalist Gainesville.
Stewart was hired to replace longtime Rome coach John Reid, who compiled 253 victories and won four state championships during his tenure with the program. Reid earned $188,457 during the 2024 season, making him the second-highest paid coach in the state that year. Stewart's compensation was not immediately available.
Before arriving at Rome, Stewart served as defensive coordinator at Rabun County in 2025 and spent two seasons as a defensive assistant at Georgia Tech under head coach Brent Key.
He previously enjoyed considerable success as head coach at North Gwinnett, posting a 60-19 record with a GHSA State Championship in 2017, along with multiple region titles.
Follow Sports Reporter Alex Martin on X at @AlexMartinUSAT or via email: amartin@usatodayco.com. For additional high school sports coverage, be sure to follow USA TODAY High School Sports on Instagram and X.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Georgia high school football power makes coaching change after stunning one-year fall
