Lane Kiffin, LSU Dealt Bad News on Friday

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Ayomide Adeduyite | Last updated Dec 26, 2025 9:28 AM ET

Lane Kiffin has begun laying the groundwork for his first season as head coach of the LSU Tigers, a high-profile move aimed at stabilizing the program following a disappointing 2025 campaign. Kiffin was hired in late November after departing from the No. 6 Ole Miss Rebels, where he led the program for six seasons.

LSU closed the 2025 season well short of expectations, finishing with a 7-5 record (3-5 SEC) and missing the College Football Playoff.

As Kiffin takes over in Baton Rouge, expectations remain high for a quick turnaround, with the program seeking a quick return to contender status.

Kiffin has already begun assembling his staff for the 2026 season, leaning on several familiar and experienced names.

From left, LSU president Wade Rousse, new head coach Lane Kiffin and athletic director Verge Ausberry.Matthew Hinton-Imagn Images

Charlie Weis Jr. is set to serve as offensive coordinator, continuing a long working relationship with Kiffin. Joe Cox will also have a role on the offensive side, while George McDonald is expected to coach wide receivers.

On defense, Sterling Lucas has joined the staff as defensive line coach, with Lane's brother Chris Kiffin taking on responsibilities as linebackers coach and co-defensive coordinator.

However, LSU will be without a key off-field personnel member moving forward. According to On3Sports, LSU associate director of player personnel Jai Choudhary is set to join Ole Miss as its new director of player personnel. Choudhary previously spent two years with Ole Miss, filling multiple roles, including assistant director of player personnel, before joining LSU in April.

LSU associate director of player personnel Jai Choudhary is set to join the Ole Miss front office as Director of Player Personnel, sources tell @On3sports. https://t.co/MFzBeswAjW pic.twitter.com/ADdI9fvJ8h
— Pete Nakos (@PeteNakos) December 26, 2025

The move represents a notable loss for LSU, as Choudhary had been involved in roster evaluation, scouting coordination and NFL liaison duties.

Choudhary brings a strong résumé, with prior experience at Ole Miss and with the USC Trojans, and is widely regarded as a rising figure in college football personnel circles. His familiarity with Kiffin’s operational approach makes his return to Ole Miss particularly notable, especially as he transitions into a larger leadership role within the Rebels’ front office.

With Choudhary gone, LSU will be tasked with replacing a key evaluator as Kiffin continues to build his program in Baton Rouge.

Meanwhile, the Tigers prepare for the Texas Bowl at 9:15 p.m. ET Saturday against the No. 21 Houston Cougars. The game will be on ESPN and the ESPN app.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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