Lane Kiffin’s first offseason at LSU hasn’t exactly been quiet - and it’s not slowing down anytime soon. After taking over in Baton Rouge, Kiffin’s been laser-focused on rebuilding the defensive staff, especially with several key assistants from his Ole Miss days opting to stay behind in Oxford. Now, just as things were starting to settle, he’s got another hole to fill.
LSU safeties coach Jake Olsen is expected to leave the program and head to the NFL, where he’s reportedly set to join the Washington Commanders’ staff. That’s according to CBS Sports’ Matt Zenitz, who reports the move is imminent.
Olsen’s departure is a significant one. He’s been a steady presence in the Tigers’ secondary for the past two seasons and played a key role in helping LSU finish in the top 25 nationally in scoring defense last year - no small feat in the always-loaded SEC. His work with the safeties helped stabilize a unit that had its share of ups and downs but showed real growth under his guidance.
For Kiffin, keeping Olsen on board during the transition from Brian Kelly’s staff was a big early win. It gave the new head coach some continuity on that side of the ball and a proven voice in the defensive meeting room. Now, with spring workouts just around the corner, Kiffin will need to pivot quickly to find a replacement who can step in and maintain that momentum.
Olsen’s coaching résumé speaks to his versatility and experience. Before LSU, he spent two seasons coaching linebackers at Missouri, and he’s made stops at Nicholls State, Louisiana-Monroe, and Southwestern Oklahoma State. That kind of varied background made him a valuable asset - someone who could connect with players and coach multiple positions at a high level.
His move to the NFL is a testament to the work he’s done at the college level, and it’s another reminder of how quickly things can change in the coaching world. For LSU, the timing isn’t ideal, but this is the reality of building a new staff in today’s game. Kiffin’s shown he’s not afraid to make bold hires - and now he’s got another big decision to make as he looks to round out his defensive staff ahead of a pivotal first season in Baton Rouge.