As we gear up for the 2025 college football season, LSU fans are buzzing with excitement. After a promising 2023 campaign that saw the Tigers solidify their place among the nation’s elite programs, head coach Brian Kelly has continued to make strategic moves to elevate LSU’s football program to new heights. One of the most significant areas of focus this offseason has been the reshaping and strengthening of his coaching staff, a crucial element in any successful program. With a blend of experienced talent and fresh, innovative ideas, Kelly’s updated coaching staff has positioned LSU for continued success in the SEC and on the national stage.
### A Look Back: The 2023 Season
Before diving into the 2025 staff updates, it’s worth reflecting on the progress Kelly’s Tigers have made since he took over in Baton Rouge. When Brian Kelly arrived in 2022, LSU was coming off a season marred by inconsistency and a lack of direction. In just two seasons, Kelly transformed the Tigers into a powerhouse again, going 10-4 in 2023 and finishing in the top 10 of the AP Poll. Under Kelly’s leadership, LSU showed dramatic improvement on both sides of the ball, with an emphasis on building depth, discipline, and recruiting top-tier talent.
Despite this success, Kelly knows that to remain at the top, continual growth is essential. The addition of key coaching staff members for 2025 is a direct response to the evolving needs of college football and LSU’s ambition to stay ahead of its competition, especially within the fiercely competitive SEC.
### Key Additions to the Staff for 2025
#### 1. **Co-Defensive Coordinator – Matt House (Promoted)**
One of the most critical moves made by Kelly for the 2025 season was the promotion of Matt House to the role of co-defensive coordinator. House, who has been integral to the success of LSU’s defense since his arrival in 2022, is known for his ability to craft aggressive, adaptable defenses that disrupt opposing offenses. In 2023, LSU’s defense showed marked improvement, particularly in its ability to create turnovers and disrupt passing lanes.
The decision to promote House was based on his ability to develop young talent while also maximizing the performance of veterans on the roster. LSU’s defense will continue to rely on House’s expertise in blitzing schemes, zone coverages, and front-seven pressure. With the growing talent in the Tigers’ defensive line and secondary, House’s promotion will bring stability and continuity, which is crucial as LSU looks to elevate its defense to match its high-powered offense.
#### 2. **Defensive Line Coach – Jamar Cain (Hired)**
Another high-profile hire made by Brian Kelly for 2025 was the addition of Jamar Cain as the defensive line coach. Cain, who previously coached at Oklahoma and had a stint at USC, is known for his exceptional work with defensive linemen, particularly in terms of player development and recruiting. Under his leadership, teams have produced elite pass-rushers and defensive linemen who make an immediate impact in the NFL.
The decision to hire Cain signals LSU’s commitment to strengthening its defensive front. With the increasing importance of a dominant defensive line in the SEC, this hire could be a game-changer. Cain will be tasked with refining LSU’s pass rush and run defense, areas where the Tigers showed promise in 2023 but can still take significant steps forward.
#### 3. **Offensive Coordinator – Mike Denbrock (Retention and New Role)**
Mike Denbrock’s promotion to offensive coordinator is another important decision by Kelly as he seeks to solidify LSU’s offensive identity. Denbrock has been a trusted member of Kelly’s staff since their time together at Notre Dame and has been instrumental in developing LSU’s offensive strategy. The 2023 season showed glimpses of an elite offense, led by quarterback Jayden Daniels and a dynamic receiving corps.
In his expanded role for 2025, Denbrock will be responsible for tailoring the offensive game plan to exploit the strengths of a talented roster. With rising stars at quarterback and in the backfield, Denbrock will focus on maintaining balance, using the run game to open up the passing attack, and continuing to integrate innovative concepts to keep defenses on their toes. His rapport with Kelly and understanding of the system make him a vital piece in LSU’s long-term success.
#### 4. **Wide Receivers Coach – Cortez Hankton (Hired)**
To further elevate LSU’s explosive passing attack, Kelly brought in Cortez Hankton as the new wide receivers coach. Hankton, who previously coached at Georgia and helped develop some of the nation’s top receiving talent, is regarded as one of the best in the business when it comes to developing wide receivers. His ability to coach players through the nuances of route running, separation, and catching passes in high-pressure situations will be a huge asset for the Tigers.
With star receivers like Malik Nabers and others in the pipeline, Hankton will be tasked with ensuring LSU’s wideouts remain among the best in the country. His reputation for preparing players for the next level will also benefit LSU’s recruiting efforts, as top receivers will be drawn to the program knowing they’ll have the chance to work with one of the best in the business.
#### 5. **Special Teams Coordinator – Corey Raymond (Retention and New Role)**
Corey Raymond, a long-time LSU assistant known for his work with the defensive backs, has been promoted to the role of special teams coordinator. While Raymond’s defensive expertise has been invaluable to LSU over the years, this new responsibility shows Kelly’s desire for continuity and stability across all facets of the program. Special teams have often been a key factor in close SEC games, and with Raymond’s attention to detail and emphasis on discipline, the Tigers will look to improve in this area for 2025.
Raymond’s extensive recruiting background also means that LSU’s special teams units will have the right mix of athleticism and raw talent, helping the Tigers compete in every phase of the game.
### Recruiting: A Key Focus
Perhaps the most significant benefit of the revamped coaching staff is the immediate impact it will have on recruiting. LSU has always been a recruiting powerhouse, but with the new additions and promotions, Kelly has ensured that the Tigers will continue to attract top talent across the board.
From defensive linemen to wide receivers, LSU’s ability to develop players and put them in a position to succeed at the next level is a huge selling point. With the expanded coaching staff, Kelly can offer recruits a more specialized development experience, which will keep LSU competitive in both national and regional recruiting battles.
### Conclusion: Setting LSU up for 2025 and Beyond
As Brian Kelly continues to build and refine his coaching staff, it’s clear that LSU is positioning itself for sustained success. The 2025 season will be a critical year for the Tigers, as they look to build on the momentum from 2023 while taking the next step toward a potential national championship. With the additions of experienced coaches like Jamar Cain, Cortez Hankton, and the promotion of Matt House, LSU’s program is in great hands.
Kelly’s ability to make these strategic moves is indicative of his long-term vision for LSU football. By addressing key areas such as the defensive line, offensive innovation, and special teams, LSU is more than ready to compete for championships in 2025. As always, Tiger fans can expect to see a team that is well-coached, disciplined, and hungry to bring home another national title to Baton Rouge.