Former LSU Tigers Head Coach Teases College Football Return

The world of college football is filled with larger-than-life characters, but few are as distinct and memorable as former LSU Tigers head coach, Ed Orgeron. With his gravelly voice, Cajun accent, and fiery “Go Tigahs!” battle cry, Coach O became a folk hero in Louisiana and a beloved figure across the sport. After a few years away from the sidelines, the man who led one of the greatest teams in college football history has made it clear: he’s ready to coach again.

Orgeron recently stated his desire to get back in the game, sparking immediate speculation and excitement among fans and analysts. This article will delve into the potential Ed Orgeron college football return, exploring his complicated legacy, the magic of the 2019 season, and what kind of opportunity might lure this iconic coach back to the sport he loves.

Ed Orgeron: The Man, The Myth, The Legend

Ed Orgeron’s career is a tale of incredible highs and challenging lows. A native of Larose, Louisiana, his journey through the coaching ranks was long and winding. He built a reputation as one of the best defensive line coaches and recruiters in the nation, with successful stints at Miami, USC, and Tennessee. His first head coaching job at Ole Miss from 2005 to 2007 was a struggle, ending with a 10-25 record.

However, his passion and leadership were undeniable. He revitalized the USC program as an interim head coach in 2013, earning the love of his players and a renewed respect across the industry. When he landed at LSU in 2015, first as a defensive line coach, it felt like a homecoming. He was named interim head coach in 2016 and was eventually given the permanent job, a decision that was initially met with mixed reactions.

Coach O quickly proved he was the right man for the job. He instilled a new level of toughness and pride in the program, building a roster loaded with talent. His tenure was defined by his raw authenticity, his deep connection to the state of Louisiana, and his ability to motivate young men.

The Unforgettable 2019 Championship Season

Any discussion of Ed Orgeron must center on the magical 2019 season. That year, LSU fielded what is widely considered one of the greatest, if not the greatest, teams in the history of college football. With Heisman Trophy winner Joe Burrow at quarterback, the Tigers were an unstoppable force, finishing with a perfect 15-0 record and a dominant National Championship victory over Clemson.

The 2019 LSU offense, engineered by Joe Brady and Steve Ensminger, shattered records and redefined what was possible at the collegiate level. The roster was a veritable NFL factory, featuring future superstars like Justin Jefferson, Ja’Marr Chase, Clyde Edwards-Helaire, and Patrick Queen.

But at the heart of it all was Coach O. He was the CEO of the program, the master recruiter who assembled the talent, and the emotional leader who unified the team. His post-game interviews became must-see television, his unbridled joy and passion resonating with fans everywhere. That season, he was more than a coach; he was the “King of Louisiana,” a local boy who had brought his home state to the pinnacle of the football world. As he once said, “I felt like we were kings of the country.” The 2019 season was the culmination of his life’s work and a moment that will forever be etched in college football lore.

Departure and Time Away

The peak of 2019 was followed by a swift and challenging decline. The team was decimated by players declaring for the NFL Draft, and the program struggled to recapture its magic. Following two consecutive .500 seasons in 2020 and 2021, coupled with off-field controversies and allegations, LSU and Orgeron mutually agreed to part ways at the end of the 2021 season.

Since then, Coach O has enjoyed his time away from the grind of head coaching. He has spent time with his family, traveled, and remained a popular figure in the media, but the competitive fire never truly went out. Now, after a few years of recharging, he has made it clear he has more to give to the game.

“I’m ready to coach again,” Orgeron recently told WAFB-TV. “I left a little bit of meat on the bone. I’m ready to go.” He also specified that he is open to various roles, not just a head coaching position, stating he would consider “what the best thing available is.”

What Would an Ed Orgeron Return Look Like?

With several Power Four head coaching jobs already open and more likely to become available, Orgeron’s name immediately becomes one of the most intriguing on the market. His potential return could take a few different forms.

The Head Coaching Candidate

A school looking to make a splash and inject energy into its program could see Orgeron as the perfect fit. His track record as a recruiter is elite, and his ability to build a strong, physical culture is proven. Programs like UCLA or Arkansas, which are looking for a new identity, could be interesting possibilities. He would bring instant credibility, media attention, and a clear vision for building a tough, competitive team. Any athletic director considering him would have to balance the incredible success of 2019 with the issues that led to his departure from LSU.

The High-Profile Assistant

Orgeron’s comment about being open to other roles is perhaps the most fascinating aspect of his potential return. The idea of him joining a top program as an Associate Head Coach and Defensive Line Coach is a tantalizing prospect. In this role, he could focus on what he does best: recruiting top-tier talent and developing dominant defensive linemen.

Imagine Orgeron on the staff of a perennial contender, unleashed on the recruiting trail without the administrative burdens of being a head coach. He would be an invaluable asset to any program, bringing championship experience and an unmatched ability to connect with players and their families. This scenario could allow him to enjoy the competition and mentorship of coaching while avoiding the intense pressure and scrutiny that comes with leading a program.

Conclusion: Coach O is Ready to Geaux

Ed Orgeron’s statement that he is ready to return to coaching is exciting news for college football. He is a one-of-a-kind personality whose passion for the game is infectious. Whether he returns as a head coach aiming to recapture the magic of 2019 or as a game-changing assistant, his presence would immediately make the sport more interesting.

His journey is a reminder that success is not always a straight line. He has experienced the highest peaks and the most difficult valleys, but his love for football has never wavered. Now rested and re-energized, Coach O feels he still has something to prove. For programs in need of a jolt of energy, a master recruiter, or a championship-winning voice, the news of a potential Ed Orgeron college football return is an opportunity that will be too compelling to ignore.