Ed Orgeron Open to Returning to College Football in Supporting Roles
Former LSU head coach Ed Orgeron says he is eager to return to college football, ideally as a defensive line coach or recruiting coordinator at a major program.
- Glenn Catubig
- 4 min read
Ed Orgeron, last seen on the sidelines as LSU’s head coach, has made it clear that he wants back into college football. The former national championship-winning coach has not held a coaching position since 2021, and he is exploring opportunities where he can contribute without necessarily being the head coach.
Orgeron’s tenure at LSU was marked by high points, including the 2019 national title, but sustaining success proved challenging. Now, the coach is openly discussing roles that would suit him, emphasizing that he is looking for the right circumstances rather than a top leadership position.
Recently, on the podcast Bussin’ With the Boys with Taylor Lewan and Will Compton, Orgeron detailed what he is seeking in a new role. He expressed interest in serving as a defensive line coach or a recruiting coordinator at a school with the resources and culture to compete for a national championship.
He specifically noted that he does not need to be the head coach to return, but he wants a program that values his experience and allows him to make an impact, particularly in recruiting and player development.
1. Ideal Role and Environment
Orgeron is clear about the type of program he wants to join. “I would go be a defensive line coach at a major program…a team that competes for the national championship,” he said. He emphasized the importance of a school with strong recruiting capabilities and significant NIL resources to attract top talent. He mentioned several schools he would consider, including USC, LSU, Penn State, Ohio State, and Florida. He also made it clear that Alabama is not a realistic option, joking that “this boy ain’t never gonna coach at Alabama.” Beyond the school itself, Orgeron wants a head coach who respects his presence on staff and is confident enough not to feel threatened. “I want the coach to have enough gumption to know that I’m there to help him,” Orgeron said. He sees his role as complementary, focusing on player development, recruiting, and contributing to championship-level programs. He also highlighted the importance of having the resources and institutional support to compete at a national level, making NIL funding, recruiting infrastructure, and overall program culture key factors in any decision he would make.
2. Recruiting and NIL Focus
Recruiting remains a central part of Orgeron’s envisioned role. He wants to leverage his reputation and connections to bring elite talent to programs with strong competitive potential. NIL opportunities, he noted, are a critical part of modern recruiting, and he wants to be involved with schools that can fully utilize these resources. Orgeron’s experience in high-pressure environments and proven track record with top-tier talent makes him a valuable asset for programs looking to strengthen recruiting and player development. His ability to connect with prospects and guide young athletes is a major selling point for any team considering him. This offseason has seen Orgeron’s name surface in multiple coaching rumors, including Oregon State and UCLA. While neither opportunity materialized, his willingness to return in a supporting capacity means he could find a suitable position soon. The former LSU coach’s openness to stepping off the head coaching track signals a shift in priorities: contributing meaningfully to a program while allowing another coach to lead the team, rather than seeking the spotlight himself.
3. Looking Ahead
As college football programs continue to evaluate coaching staffs for the 2026 season, Orgeron’s name is likely to remain in circulation. His focus on high-profile programs with championship potential aligns with teams seeking experienced staff to bolster recruiting and player development. With his extensive experience and national championship pedigree, Orgeron could quickly become a sought-after addition for programs looking to gain a competitive edge. Timing and fit will be key, as he is selective about where he wants to land. If the right opportunity arises, Orgeron’s return could bring both expertise and visibility to a program’s coaching staff, enhancing recruiting, development, and on-field performance. His willingness to adapt to a supporting role demonstrates both humility and a continued passion for the game, suggesting he is far from finished in college football.