As staff changes continue in the midst of the College Football Playoffs, Brian Kelly and the LSU Tigers are radically changing this offseason.

The offseason in college football is often a time of reflection, adjustment, and recalibration for teams, coaches, and programs aiming to compete at the highest level. For the LSU Tigers, 2025 has ushered in a period of radical change, not only in terms of staff and personnel but also in the way the program is being constructed under the leadership of head coach Brian Kelly. As the College Football Playoffs unfold, the Tigers are positioned to make significant moves that could impact both their immediate future and long-term trajectory.

After a season that featured highs and lows, the LSU Tigers are entering a pivotal offseason that could redefine the program for years to come. Brian Kelly, who has already established himself as one of the top coaches in college football, is overseeing a transformation of the roster, the coaching staff, and the overall culture of the team. While many programs may be focused solely on the playoff picture, LSU is simultaneously preparing for a future that requires immediate attention to both the present and future.

The landscape of college football is shifting. The transfer portal, NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals, and staff changes are becoming increasingly common, and LSU is at the forefront of this transformation. Brian Kelly’s ability to adapt to these new realities while maintaining the tradition and winning culture at LSU will be key to the program’s success moving forward.

1. The Legacy of Brian Kelly: A Foundation of Success

When Brian Kelly was hired as the head coach of LSU in 2022, it was a move that both shocked and excited college football. Known for his impressive tenure at Notre Dame, where he consistently turned the Fighting Irish into a playoff contender, Kelly’s arrival in Baton Rouge signaled a shift in philosophy for the Tigers. Kelly brought with him a reputation for discipline, attention to detail, and an ability to develop players both on and off the field. However, his tenure at LSU has been about more than just winning games; it’s about laying the groundwork for sustained success in a rapidly changing college football landscape.

Kelly’s first two years at LSU showcased his ability to recruit at a high level, build a competitive team, and bring the Tigers back into the conversation as one of the premier programs in the nation. In 2024, LSU earned a spot in the College Football Playoffs, reinforcing Kelly’s philosophy and system as a formula for success. The Tigers displayed explosive offense and a resilient defense, making their mark in the SEC and beyond.

However, despite their playoff berth, LSU’s journey was not without its challenges. Injuries, close losses, and consistency issues highlighted the need for deeper roster development, enhanced coaching strategies, and, ultimately, a shift in the program’s approach during the offseason. Kelly was keenly aware that changes were necessary for LSU to compete for a national championship consistently.

2. Staff Changes: A New Era of Coaching Leadership

One of the most significant shifts in LSU’s offseason comes in the form of changes to the coaching staff. Brian Kelly has made several notable staff moves that reflect his vision for the Tigers moving forward. The coaching changes are part of a broader strategy to improve LSU’s roster and ensure the team is equipped for the challenges of SEC play, with the ultimate goal of securing a national championship.

Perhaps the most high-profile coaching change is at the offensive coordinator position. After the departure of long-time offensive coordinator, LSU brought in a new voice to oversee the offense. This new coordinator, an innovative mind with a proven track record of building high-powered offenses, is expected to transform LSU’s attack into a more dynamic and versatile unit. With a quarterback room that boasts talent and an array of skill players like wide receiver Kayshon Boutte and running back TreVeyon Henderson, the new offensive coordinator will be tasked with maximizing the team’s potential.

On the defensive side, LSU has undergone changes to ensure that the defense can continue its legacy as one of the SEC’s elite units. LSU’s defensive coordinator was brought in to focus on making improvements in both the secondary and the defensive line. This new leadership is expected to bring a more aggressive and attacking mindset, while also ensuring that LSU maintains its discipline against high-powered offenses.

In addition to the coordinator changes, Kelly has also made adjustments to position coaching staffs. By bringing in younger, more innovative coaches, as well as retaining a few key veterans who have been instrumental in LSU’s previous success, Kelly has built a diverse and talented coaching staff. This mix of experience and youth provides LSU with a blend of tradition and new-age thinking, both of which will be crucial for the program’s future.

3. The Transfer Portal: LSU’s Strategic Moves to Address Gaps

One of the most significant changes for LSU this offseason has been their aggressive pursuit of talent through the transfer portal. College football has seen a shift in how rosters are constructed, and LSU, like many other programs, has embraced the portal as a vital tool in building a championship-caliber team. Under Kelly’s leadership, the Tigers have made strategic moves to address specific gaps in the roster.

The most notable area of concern for LSU was the quarterback position. Although LSU had solid quarterback play in 2024, Kelly recognized the need for a true leader under center to guide the offense and elevate it to the next level. In the offseason, LSU brought in a highly-touted transfer quarterback, one with significant experience at the Power 5 level. This addition has injected new life into the team’s offensive scheme and has given LSU the stability it needs at quarterback, a position that often makes or breaks championship contenders.

The Tigers also made several key additions to the defensive side of the ball through the transfer portal. With key departures in the secondary and on the defensive line, LSU used the portal to bring in seasoned veterans with experience in the SEC. These additions are expected to provide immediate impact, particularly in the trenches, where LSU has often excelled in the past.

The transfer portal strategy for LSU is about more than just filling holes; it’s about adding depth and talent that will push the team to new heights. By carefully identifying areas of need and targeting high-impact players, Kelly has positioned LSU to be more competitive in the 2025 season, while also addressing long-term concerns.

4. Recruiting: The Lifeblood of LSU’s Future

As always, recruiting will remain a critical focus for LSU, especially as Kelly looks to continue building the program into a national powerhouse. The 2025 recruiting class is expected to be one of LSU’s most talented and deepest in recent years, and the coaching staff has been hard at work securing commitments from top prospects across the country.

LSU’s recruiting efforts have already paid dividends, with several highly-ranked prospects committing to the Tigers for the 2025 season. The emphasis has been on building a balanced roster that features top-tier talent at every position. LSU has recruited well in the trenches, which has been a hallmark of the program, while also focusing on skill positions where playmakers like wide receivers, running backs, and cornerbacks will be crucial for the team’s success.

Kelly has also placed an emphasis on securing recruits with character, leadership potential, and the ability to adapt to the rigors of SEC football. LSU’s commitment to building a strong locker room culture is as important as the talent it recruits, and Kelly’s ability to find players who fit into that culture will be key to LSU’s continued success.

As the 2025 recruiting cycle winds down, LSU is positioned to land several more top-tier players, ensuring that the Tigers will have the talent needed to compete for championships not only in the upcoming season but for years to come.

5. Cultural Shifts: LSU’s Focus on Consistency and Winning Habits

While talent acquisition and coaching changes are important, Brian Kelly has also focused on making cultural changes within the program. After his first few years at LSU, Kelly recognized the importance of building a consistent winning culture, one where every player is held to the highest standards both on and off the field.

To achieve this, Kelly has worked tirelessly to instill a sense of accountability and discipline across the roster. He has emphasized the importance of team chemistry, leadership, and mental toughness as key components of success. The 2025 offseason has seen an increased focus on individual and team development, as players are expected to be more self-disciplined and focused on the team’s goals.

Kelly has also made efforts to foster a more inclusive and supportive environment for his players, knowing that a strong team culture is just as important as physical talent. Building a culture of trust, mutual respect, and resilience is central to Kelly’s approach, and it will be a key factor in LSU’s quest for a national championship.