Jake Olsen, the safeties coach for LSU football, is reportedly set to join the NFL’s Washington Commanders, according to multiple sources. Olsen, 36, has been part of the LSU coaching staff for the past two seasons, joining with defensive coordinator Blake Baker before the 2024 season. This move marks a significant change for LSU as Olsen was a key figure on the defensive side of the team.
Olsen’s Coaching Career and LSU Tenure
Before his tenure at LSU, Olsen spent the 2022 and 2023 seasons coaching at Missouri after serving as an analyst on LSU coach Ed Orgeron’s staff in 2021. His coaching experience extends to Northwestern State in Natchitoches, where he worked on linebackers, safeties, and special teams over four seasons. His departure comes as LSU coach Lane Kiffin faces challenges in retaining coaching talent amid other NFL opportunities.
Other LSU Coaching Staff and NFL Interest
While Blake Baker continues as LSU’s defensive coordinator after declining head coaching offers from Tulane and Memphis, other staff have also attracted NFL interest. Notably, offensive coordinator Charles Weis Jr., who joined LSU from Ole Miss alongside Kiffin, has received NFL offers but chosen to remain with the Tigers for now.
Implications of Olsen’s Departure for LSU
Olsen’s likely jump to the NFL highlights the ongoing struggle LSU faces in keeping experienced coaches despite Lane Kiffin’s strong recruiting abilities. This move could affect the continuity of LSU’s defensive coaching and challenge the Tigers as they prepare for future seasons. How LSU rebuilds to fill the void left by Olsen will be closely watched in the coming months.
