Ed Orgeron seems ready to return to coaching after four years away. The former LSU coach recently spoke about his coaching future and made his intentions clear about returning to football. His championship pedigree from the 2019 season and proven recruiting abilities make him an attractive candidate for programs looking to make a splash hire.
But with just over a week until the Texas Longhorns and Ohio State Buckeyes face off in Columbus, which programs could be in the market for “Coach O?”
Which Programs Could Realistically Land Coach O?
During his recent appearance on Barstool Sports’ “Pardon My Take” podcast, Orgeron opened up about his coaching future.
When asked about returning to coaching, he said, “You know what, yeah, I think it’s time. I’m feeling it a little bit. I haven’t made the decision totally, but I’ve got my boys settled, coaching football now, and it’s been four years since I’ve been out, and I’m getting the itch again.”
The 64-year-old coach has been living in Miami Beach for the past four years. His sons are now established in their coaching careers, with two working as analysts at Miami and his oldest son coaching at Tulane.
Orgeron’s return seems more likely than ever. His championship experience from the 2019 LSU season makes him attractive to programs needing leadership and recruiting expertise. Here are five programs where Coach O could potentially land.
Auburn Tigers
Hugh Freeze enters the 2025 season sitting on college football’s hot seat after posting an 11-14 record over two disappointing seasons. The Tigers managed just 5-11 in SEC play, despite landing back-to-back top-10 recruiting classes, leaving Auburn fans frustrated and calling for change.
Auburn has the resources and willingness to make coaching changes quickly when expectations aren’t met. The program has invested heavily in facilities and NIL but hasn’t seen those investments convert into wins on the field.
Orgeron’s SEC knowledge would be huge for Auburn. His Louisiana recruiting ties could help the Tigers land top talent they’ve been missing. The combination of his championship experience and Auburn’s resources could create something special on the Plains. Plus, his ability to develop NFL-caliber players would resonate with Auburn’s high-level recruits.
LSU Tigers
LSU seems unlikely, but Brian Kelly isn’t as safe as people think. Despite having better talent, he faces pressure entering year four, as analyst Josh Pate also put Kelly on “fraud watch” heading into this season.
LSU provided Kelly with every resource necessary for success, including the nation’s top transfer portal class and significant facility upgrades throughout the program. However, the Tigers face a brutal early schedule featuring potential season-defining games against Clemson, Florida, Ole Miss, and Texas A&M. A bad start could quickly change everything for Kelly in Baton Rouge.
Orgeron’s return would excite LSU fans who still cherish his 2019 championship magic. His understanding of LSU’s culture, recruiting territories, and what it takes to win in Baton Rouge makes him a natural fit. The fan base knows what Orgeron can do when everything clicks.
Oklahoma Sooners
Brent Venables enters a make-or-break fourth season in Norman after posting a disappointing 22-17 overall record. His 0-3 bowl game performance and the program’s difficult 2-6 SEC debut have created significant unrest among supporters expecting championship-level competition.
Oklahoma recently invested heavily in facilities, staff, and NIL programs. But Venables must show results to justify those investments this year. Their archrival, Texas, succeeded in its first SEC season, while Oklahoma struggled badly against conference competition.
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Orgeron’s championship experience could appeal to Oklahoma’s administration if they decide a coaching change becomes necessary. His recruiting skills and player development track record could help the Sooners adapt more effectively to the demands of SEC competition. The program needs someone who understands what it takes to win at the highest level.
Colorado Buffaloes
Colorado depends on Deion Sanders’ future plans and health situation. While Sanders has recovered well, the serious health battle raises questions about his long-term coaching plans and future commitment to the program.
Sanders also has NFL aspirations that could eventually draw him away from the college ranks despite his success transforming Colorado’s program. He has developed NFL-caliber talent like Travis Hunter Jr. and Shedeur Sanders, but has never made a definitive long-term commitment to staying in Boulder.
If Sanders leaves for health concerns or NFL opportunities, Colorado would need someone to maintain their momentum. Orgeron’s track record of developing NFL players perfectly fits this need.
His experience managing high-profile programs would help sustain Colorado’s newfound success and keep the program relevant on the national stage.
Tulane Green Wave
Tulane offers perhaps the most natural landing spot for Orgeron’s coaching return, particularly given his son Tyler’s current role as an analyst with the program. This family connection makes the opportunity even more appealing for someone looking to stay close to home.
Jon Sumrall’s impressive success at Tulane has generated huge interest from larger Power Four programs, potentially creating an opening if he departs for a bigger opportunity. The Green Wave’s recent momentum has put Sumrall on several coaching search radars.
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Orgeron’s Louisiana ties would keep local talent from transferring away. His championship experience brings instant credibility to the program, and his New Orleans location lets him stay close to his traditional recruiting base. The fit makes sense from every angle, both personally and professionally.
Based on his podcast comments, his coaching return seems certain. With college football’s volatile coaching landscape and his proven championship pedigree, Coach “O” should find a landing spot soon enough.
The question isn’t whether he’ll return, but where he’ll make his next impact.