The winds of change are blowing through Baton Rouge. After a tumultuous stretch following the historic 2019 national championship season, LSU football is preparing for a new era. The university has confirmed that head coach Ed Orgeron will part ways with the program at the end of the 2021 season. While he will finish the current campaign, a $16.9 million buyout package signals the end of his reign—and the start of a high-stakes search for the Tigers’ next leader.
The move comes as no surprise to those closely following LSU’s trajectory. Since the title-winning season, on-field performance has dipped, and internal reports have pointed to cultural misalignment and distractions off the field. The school’s athletic director, Scott Woodward, made the expectations clear:
“Our last two seasons have simply not met that standard, and based on our on-field results and our evaluation of the potential for future immediate success, it is time for a new direction.”
While Orgeron led the Tigers to a title few will forget, LSU’s championship mindset requires more than past glory—it demands consistent dominance, player development, and a unified locker room. As the Tigers look toward the future, the biggest question now is: Who will lead the team onto the field next season wearing the iconic LSU football team uniforms?
Orgeron’s Final Stretch & Lavish Exit
Though his dismissal is already confirmed, Orgeron remains at the helm through the rest of the 2021 season. He has maintained professionalism and gratitude, stating in a press conference:
“I’m going to have enough money to buy me a hamburger.”
That “hamburger” comes with a $16.9 million buyout—paid over 18 installments through 2025. It’s a generous exit for a coach who delivered one of the most dominant seasons in college football history but struggled to maintain that level in the years that followed.
Top Contenders to Replace Orgeron at LSU
LSU is not just looking for any coach—it’s seeking someone who can command respect, recruit top-tier talent, and embody the pride associated with LSU’s football team uniforms. With one of the most passionate fan bases and a program loaded with resources, the stakes couldn’t be higher.
Here are the top five candidates expected to fill the coaching void and lead LSU toward another national championship:
1. Jimbo Fisher
At the top of nearly every insider list is Jimbo Fisher, current head coach of Texas A&M and former national title winner with Florida State in 2013. Fisher’s connection with LSU Athletic Director Scott Woodward (from their shared time at Texas A&M) makes him a logical candidate.
Fisher has the championship pedigree, SEC experience, and charisma to galvanize a locker room. He’s known for bringing discipline and a winning culture—qualities LSU desperately needs as it looks to rebuild trust and on-field performance.
2. James Franklin
Currently the head coach at Penn State, James Franklin is one of the hottest names in college football coaching circles. USC has shown strong interest, but LSU’s history, exposure, and recruiting power could sway Franklin south.
Franklin is admired for his player-first mentality, strong recruiting pipelines, and ability to rebrand and reinvigorate programs. His presence on the sideline, along with LSU’s unmistakable football team uniforms, could be the right combination to return the Tigers to elite status.
3. Mel Tucker
Mel Tucker has proven himself as a rising star in the coaching world. Now at Michigan State, Tucker’s résumé includes stints with Alabama, Georgia, and in the NFL. He has a defensive mindset, builds tough teams, and establishes deep bonds with players—traits that resonate in SEC territory.
His ability to connect culturally and elevate players’ performance could make him an ideal leader to unite LSU’s talent-heavy roster under one mission and one uniform.
4. Lane Kiffin
If LSU wants wins—and fast—then Lane Kiffin could be the man for the job. The current Ole Miss Coach is known for his innovative offensive strategies and ability to energize a program quickly. Kiffin has grown into a more composed and respected leader over the years, proving that he’s more than just flash.
He brings SEC experience and a modern coaching style that could work wonders for LSU’s explosive playmakers. If hired, fans could soon be cheering Kiffin as he paces the sidelines in purple and gold football team uniforms.
5. Billy Napier
A rising star and Louisiana native, Billy Napier is a name that continues to generate buzz. Currently leading Louisiana-Lafayette, Napier has turned the Ragin’ Cajuns into a competitive program with limited resources. His deep roots in the state and recruiting connections make him an attractive option.
Napier is also known for discipline, development, and maintaining a culture-first locker room—essential qualities for any coach stepping into LSU’s spotlight.
The Road Ahead for LSU Football
Whoever takes over at LSU will inherit more than just a talented roster—they’ll step into a program with high expectations, relentless media attention, and the responsibility of carrying on a proud tradition. The football team uniforms at LSU represent more than a brand—they reflect a culture of grit, excellence, and championship dreams.
With the transfer portal evolving the landscape and NIL deals changing the dynamics of recruiting, LSU needs a coach who can balance legacy with innovation. This next hire will shape the future not just of LSU, but of college football’s elite tier.
Final Thoughts
As Ed Orgeron prepares to exit, his legacy remains complicated. He gave LSU a season for the ages—but also reminded fans that staying on top takes more than one magical run.
Now, all eyes are on Scott Woodward and the LSU leadership as they prepare to unveil the next figurehead—someone who can rally the Tigers, bring pride back to the football team uniforms, and chase down another national title
