LSU Convinces Key Assistant to Stay After Accepting NFL Job

Safeties coach Jake Olsen will remain with the Tigers after initially accepting a role with the Washington Commanders.

Feb. 17, 2026 at 11:23pm

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LSU football head coach Lane Kiffin managed to convince safeties coach Jake Olsen to stay with the Tigers, despite Olsen initially accepting a job with the NFL's Washington Commanders. Olsen, who was a holdover from the previous Brian Kelly regime, is considered a key member of Kiffin's staff and has helped develop several talented players in the Tigers' secondary.

Why it matters

Retaining Olsen is an important move for Kiffin as he looks to build his coaching staff and continue the momentum from LSU's successful 2024 season. Olsen's experience and ability to develop defensive backs will be crucial as the Tigers look to compete for a championship in the SEC.

The details

Olsen was reportedly set to join the Commanders' coaching staff, but Kiffin and LSU worked hard to convince him to stay in Baton Rouge. Olsen has been with the Tigers since the Brian Kelly era and has played a key role in the development of players like 2024 freshman Dashawn Spears and 2023 standout Major Burns.

  • On Monday, Matt Zenitz of CBS Sports reported that Olsen had initially accepted the job with the Commanders.

The players

Lane Kiffin

The head coach of the LSU football team, who convinced Olsen to remain on his staff.

Jake Olsen

The LSU safeties coach who was initially set to join the Washington Commanders' coaching staff before deciding to stay with the Tigers.

Dashawn Spears

A 2024 freshman defensive back who was developed by Olsen.

Major Burns

A talented defensive back who was coached by Olsen during his time at LSU.

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What they’re saying

“Lane Kiffin and LSU worked hard to keep him after he initially accepted the job and now set to keep him at LSU.”

— Matt Zenitz, CBS Sports Reporter

What’s next

Olsen's decision to remain at LSU provides stability and continuity for Kiffin's coaching staff as they look to build on the Tigers' success in 2024 and compete for an SEC championship in 2025.

The takeaway

Retaining key assistant coaches is crucial for college football programs looking to maintain momentum and compete at a high level. Kiffin's ability to convince Olsen to stay at LSU demonstrates his strong recruiting skills and commitment to building a championship-caliber program in Baton Rouge.