LSU's Kiffin Emphasizes Culture Shift Ahead of NFL Draft

New head coach focuses on 'very energetic environment' as LSU rebuilds roster and staff

Apr. 11, 2026 at 1:33pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fragmented, geometric painting depicting an abstract college football practice scene, with players and coaches represented as angular, overlapping forms in a vibrant color palette.A cubist interpretation of the energy and intensity of LSU's spring football practices under new head coach Lane Kiffin.Baton Rouge Today

In his first spring practices as LSU's new head coach, Lane Kiffin is already laying the groundwork for a major culture shift within the program. Kiffin is emphasizing the importance of creating a positive, energetic environment where players and coaches can thrive, rather than just focusing on quick fixes. With nearly 50 new players on the roster, Kiffin is working to build chemistry and reset standards as the Tigers look to rebound from a 5-3 season in 2025.

Why it matters

Kiffin inherited a significant roster overhaul at LSU, with nearly 50 new players joining the team. After a disappointing 5-3 season in 2025, LSU made a big investment in Kiffin to turn the program around quickly. By prioritizing culture and energy over just wins, Kiffin is taking a long-term approach to rebuilding the Tigers, which could pay dividends down the road even if the early results are messy.

The details

Through the first four spring practices, LSU has already logged six fights, which Kiffin is addressing head-on. He's focusing on teaching players fundamentals and conflict resolution, rather than brushing off the issues. Kiffin wants to create an environment where players and coaches 'operate at their best' and feel like they 'want to be' at LSU, not somewhere they 'have to be.' This includes resetting standards, building chemistry, and instilling positive habits in the players.

  • LSU's spring practices are currently underway.
  • The Tigers' season opener against Clemson is scheduled for September 5.

The players

Lane Kiffin

The new head coach of the LSU Tigers, hired to turn around the program after a 5-3 season in 2025.

Harlem Berry

An LSU running back who attributed the early practice fights to players competing intensely to prove themselves on the new-look roster.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“You build an environment where players and coaches operate at their best. It's about creating a place they want to be, not somewhere they feel they have to be. If it's negative, people don't perform. They just wait for the day to end. That's not how you win. You need energy. Positivity. Everyone involved. That's when players grow and teams become successful.”

— Lane Kiffin, Head Coach, LSU Tigers

“It's a very energetic environment that they feel like they want to begin, become more.”

— Lane Kiffin, Head Coach, LSU Tigers

What’s next

With no traditional spring game and the season opener against Clemson looming on September 5, Kiffin and the Tigers have a short runway to get the new-look roster ready. However, Kiffin's focus is on building the right culture and identity for the long-term, rather than just quick fixes for the early games.

The takeaway

Kiffin's emphasis on culture and energy over immediate results could pay dividends for LSU down the road, even if the early part of the season is messy as the Tigers rebuild. By prioritizing an environment where players and coaches can thrive, Kiffin is taking a patient approach to turning the program around, which could make the Tigers a dangerous team by the time the games truly matter.