Ed Orgeron states he is just a phone call away from coming back to LSU

LSU Tigers Seek New Head Coach After Firing Brian Kelly

The LSU Tigers are on the hunt for a new head football coach following the dismissal of Brian Kelly. Among those expressing interest in returning is Ed Orgeron, a former coach with a national championship ring from his previous time with the team.

Orgeron mentioned in a recent interview, perhaps jokingly, “Are you kidding me? I’m just a phone call away! If I have to get in the truck, I might get there today.”

He led the Tigers from 2016 to 2021, notably guiding the 2019 team, which boasted players like Joe Burrow and Justin Jefferson, to a perfect 15-0 record and the national championship. Overall, Orgeron holds a 51-20 record with LSU, but his tenure ended after disappointing seasons in 2020 and 2021, where his teams finished 5-5 and 6-6, respectively.

Orgeron, who still resides in Louisiana, noted the importance of a new coach fitting into the unique culture at LSU. He remarked, “When you meet a candidate, is this someone who can withstand the pressure of LSU and embrace Louisiana?” He added that it seemed like Kelly may not have fully embraced the community, which can be crucial for success.

Even though he’s eager for a comeback, Orgeron has not held a head coaching position since 2021. Current candidates with connections to the Tigers are still coaching at other institutions, such as Ole Miss head coach Lane Kiffin. Orgeron has a history with Kiffin from their time together at USC.

If Kiffin were to head to Baton Rouge, Orgeron expressed he wouldn’t mind collaborating again, stating, “I still have a home in Baton Rouge. I loved Coach (Les) Miles when he was the defensive line coach. I love the Tigers. And I’m going to go back to coaching. Of course, I’ll consider it. No doubt.”

Kelly’s exit followed back-to-back losses, including a significant defeat against No. 3 Texas A&M and a prior loss to Vanderbilt.

In four seasons with the Tigers, Kelly had a 34-14 record and was brought in on a hefty 10-year, $100 million contract after his successful run at Notre Dame.