BATON ROUGE, La. – Ed Orgeron, the fiery coach who led the LSU Tigers to a historic 2019 national championship, has expressed strong interest in returning to the program in a mentorship role, according to a FOX Sports report. Orgeron, whose gravelly voice and “Geaux Tigers” passion made him a Louisiana legend, aims to guide the next generation of players under head coach Brian Kelly, bringing his championship experience back to Death Valley.
Orgeron’s tenure as LSU’s head coach from 2016 to 2021 was a rollercoaster of triumph and turbulence. His crowning achievement came in 2019, when he guided LSU to a 15-0 record and a national title, defeating Clemson 42-25 in the College Football Playoff. Led by Heisman Trophy winner Joe Burrow, the Tigers’ high-octane offense, averaging 48.4 points per game, set records, with Burrow throwing 60 touchdown passes. Orgeron’s 2019 squad, featuring stars like Ja’Marr Chase and Justin Jefferson, is widely regarded as one of college football’s greatest teams. His 49-17 record at LSU included 13 wins over Top-10 teams, earning him National Coach of the Year honors from multiple outlets.
“Coach O” returned to LSU as a bench coach in 2024, a role focused on player development and staff support, signaling his desire to stay connected to the program. Now, FOX Sports reports Orgeron’s enthusiasm for a formal mentorship position, where he would advise players on leadership, resilience, and the demands of SEC football. “I love LSU, and I love these kids,” Orgeron told FOX Sports. “I want to help them become men, like we did in ’19, and keep that Tiger spirit alive.”
Orgeron’s potential return comes as LSU rebuilds under Kelly, who led the Tigers to a 10-3 record in 2024 but fell short of the College Football Playoff. The program, currently 6-3 in 2025, has shown flashes of brilliance but struggles with consistency, losing to Texas A&M and Alabama in close contests. Orgeron’s mentorship could provide a spark, leveraging his deep ties to Louisiana culture and his ability to inspire, as seen in his “One Team, One Heartbeat” mantra.
His 2019 success was built on innovative practices, like themed practice days—Tell the Truth Monday, Turnover Wednesday—and a focus on player development. Former players like Clyde Edwards-Helaire have praised Orgeron’s authenticity, with Edwards noting at the 2019 Heisman ceremony that Orgeron’s tears during Burrow’s speech showed his genuine care. Fans on X are buzzing, with posts like, “Coach O back mentoring? That’s the Cajun fire we need!” and “Bring back the 2019 vibes!”
However, Orgeron’s LSU tenure wasn’t without controversy. In 2021, he parted ways with the program after a 3-3 start, amid allegations of mishandling sexual misconduct claims involving players, including former running back Derrius Guice. Orgeron denied direct knowledge of these incidents, but the Title IX lawsuit and a USA Today investigation citing nine players accused of misconduct cast a shadow. His $16.9 million buyout, paid through 2025, also drew scrutiny. FOX Sports notes Orgeron’s acknowledgment of past mistakes, quoting him as saying, “I’ve learned, and I’m here to give back, not take.”
Since leaving LSU, Orgeron has remained active, winning a 2024 court ruling against his ex-wife over contract disputes and engaging in community events in Larose, Louisiana. His return as a bench coach last year was met with fan excitement, and a mentorship role could further solidify his redemption arc. Athletic director Scott Woodward, who praised Orgeron’s passion in 2021, is reportedly open to discussions.
Orgeron’s mentorship would focus on intangibles—building team chemistry, fostering toughness, and instilling pride in LSU’s traditions. His connection to greats like Bert Jones and Tommy Casanova, whom he idolized growing up, could resonate with recruits.
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