Ed Orgeron Expresses Strong Desire to Return as LSU Head Football Coach

Coach O: “I’d Love To” Lead LSU Again

Former LSU head football coach Ed Orgeron has publicly confirmed his deep interest in returning to the helm of the Tigers program, should the opportunity arise. Speaking on ESPN’s Unsportsmanlike show, Orgeron was directly questioned by host Evan Cohen about whether he would consider taking the job again, prompting an immediate and enthusiastic response.

Orgeron’s statement, “I’d love to,” leaves no doubt about his affinity for Baton Rouge and the desire to once again coach the team he led to a historic National Championship.

This declaration reignites speculation among the LSU faithful about the possibility of a reunion, even as the program currently operates under the leadership of its existing head coach.

The Context of the Candid Confession

Orgeron, known affectionately as “Coach O,” has maintained a relatively low profile since his departure from LSU in October 2021. His comments on ESPN provide a rare insight into his current mindset regarding his coaching future, specifically tying it back to the program where he achieved the pinnacle of the sport.

The interview focused on Orgeron’s ongoing connection to the university and the state of Louisiana, a relationship that has always been central to his identity as a coach.

“I’d love to,” Orgeron stated when asked if he would want the LSU head coaching job again. “I love LSU. I love the people of Louisiana. I love the players. I love the recruiting. I love the atmosphere.”

His explicit mention of the aspects he misses—recruiting, the atmosphere, and the players—underscores that his passion for the job remains undiminished, despite the tumultuous end to his previous tenure.

Reviewing the Orgeron Era: Triumph and Transition

Ed Orgeron’s time at LSU was a dramatic arc defined by an unprecedented high followed by a rapid decline, leading to a mutual separation agreement.

The Peak: 2019 National Championship

Orgeron’s legacy is cemented by the 2019 season, considered by many analysts to be one of the greatest single seasons in college football history. The team, led by Heisman Trophy winner Joe Burrow, went 15-0 and dominated the College Football Playoff, securing the National Championship.

This success was built on Orgeron’s ability to recruit elite talent and his deep understanding of the Louisiana football landscape.

The Departure

Following the 2019 triumph, the program struggled to maintain consistency, particularly during the challenging 2020 and 2021 seasons. The decision for Orgeron to step down was announced in October 2021, effective at the end of that season. This separation was amicable, resulting in a significant $17 million buyout paid by the university.

The key factors contributing to the separation included:

• On-Field Performance Decline: A drop-off in competitiveness immediately following the championship season.
• Recruiting Challenges: While still bringing in talent, the overall roster management and staff stability faced scrutiny.
• Program Culture: Reports suggested internal issues and a need for a fresh start following the intense pressure of the championship run.

Analyzing the Feasibility of a Return

While Orgeron’s enthusiasm is clear, the practical reality of him returning to the LSU sidelines is complex, especially considering the current coaching landscape in 2025.

The Current Situation

LSU currently employs a head coach, and there is no indication of an immediate vacancy. For Orgeron to return, a coaching change would first need to occur, triggering a potentially massive financial decision for the university regarding the current coach’s contract and buyout.

Fan Sentiment and Institutional Memory

Orgeron remains a beloved figure in Louisiana, largely due to the 2019 title. However, institutional memory is also sharp regarding the circumstances of his departure and the significant buyout involved. Any discussion of his return would be met with mixed reactions:

Arguments for Coach O’s Return:

• Proven Championship Pedigree: He has delivered the ultimate prize in the modern era.
• Elite Recruiting: His ability to connect with local talent and secure commitments is undeniable.
• Cultural Fit: He embodies the passion and intensity of LSU football.

Arguments Against Coach O’s Return:

• Previous Buyout: The university already paid a substantial sum for the separation.
• Sustainability Concerns: Questions remain about his ability to maintain program consistency over a long period.
• Need for Fresh Perspective: Many argue the program requires new leadership to adapt to the evolving SEC and College Football Playoff structure.

Coach O’s Post-LSU Career

Since leaving LSU, Orgeron has largely remained out of the coaching spotlight, focusing on personal life and occasional media appearances. His expressed desire to return to coaching, specifically at LSU, suggests he is not content with retirement and is ready to re-enter the high-stakes world of college football if the right opportunity presents itself.

His comments serve as a clear signal to the college football world: Ed Orgeron is available, motivated, and his heart remains with the LSU Tigers.

Key Takeaways

Orgeron’s recent interview provides definitive clarity on his coaching aspirations:

• Clear Intent: Ed Orgeron explicitly stated, “I’d love to,” return as LSU’s head coach.
• Source: The comments were made during an interview on ESPN’s Unsportsmanlike with Evan Cohen.
• Motivation: He cited his love for the players, the atmosphere, and the recruiting process in Louisiana.
• Context: Orgeron previously led LSU to the 2019 National Championship but separated from the program in October 2021 with a $17 million buyout.
• Feasibility: While his desire is strong, the job is not currently open, making a return highly contingent on future developments within the LSU athletic department.

Conclusion

Ed Orgeron’s public declaration confirms what many LSU fans suspected: the National Championship-winning coach harbors a strong desire to finish his career leading the Tigers. While the current coaching situation at LSU makes an immediate return improbable, Orgeron’s willingness to step back into the high-pressure environment of the SEC West puts him firmly on the list of potential candidates should the LSU head coaching position become available in the future. His deep roots in Louisiana and his proven ability to deliver a national title ensure that his name will always be linked to the program, regardless of who currently holds the title.