LSU Assistant Stays Put After Change of Heart About Joining Commanders

Safeties coach Jake Olsen decides to remain at LSU after initially agreeing to join Washington's staff.

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

LSU safeties coach Jake Olsen had reportedly agreed to join the Washington Commanders' coaching staff, but has now had a change of heart and will remain in Baton Rouge. New LSU head coach Lane Kiffin worked hard to convince Olsen to stay after he initially agreed to leave for Washington.

Why it matters

Olsen's decision to stay at LSU is a win for the Tigers' program, as he has coached several talented defensive backs, including safety A.J. Haulcy who is expected to be a high draft pick. The Commanders, meanwhile, will have to look elsewhere to fill their defensive coaching staff.

The details

Olsen had agreed to join the Commanders as an assistant defensive backs coach or quality control assistant, but new LSU head coach Lane Kiffin convinced him to remain with the Tigers. Olsen has been LSU's safeties coach for the past two seasons and also served as a defensive analyst in 2021 when Daronte Jones was the defensive coordinator.

  • Over the weekend, Olsen initially agreed to join the Commanders' coaching staff.
  • Olsen has been LSU's safeties coach for the past two seasons.

The players

Jake Olsen

LSU's safeties coach who had agreed to join the Washington Commanders' coaching staff before having a change of heart and deciding to remain at LSU.

Lane Kiffin

The new head coach of the LSU Tigers who worked hard to convince Olsen to stay in Baton Rouge.

Daronte Jones

The former defensive coordinator at LSU, where Olsen served as a defensive analyst in 2021.

A.J. Haulcy

A safety at LSU who is expected to be selected in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Tommy Donatell

The current safeties coach for the Washington Commanders.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“It wasn't reported what his job title would be, but he could've been an assistant defensive backs coach or a quality control assistant.”

— Bryan Manning, Author (yahoo.com)

What’s next

The Commanders will now have to look elsewhere to fill the defensive coaching staff position that Olsen was initially set to take.

The takeaway

Olsen's decision to remain at LSU is a positive for the Tigers' program, as he has developed several talented defensive backs. The Commanders, meanwhile, will have to adjust their coaching staff plans after Olsen's change of heart.