Coaching Carousel: A Pivotal Shift in Defensive Ranks
Olsen's Journey: From LSU to the NFL
Jake Olsen, who previously served as LSU's safeties coach, is making a significant career move by joining the Washington Commanders' defensive staff. This transition marks a new chapter for Olsen, taking him from collegiate football to the professional league.
A Long-Standing Coaching Partnership
Olsen's career has been closely intertwined with LSU defensive coordinator Blake Baker. Their professional relationship dates back to 2021 when Olsen was a defensive analyst under Baker. He followed Baker to Missouri and subsequently returned with him to Baton Rouge, where he coached safeties for the Tigers for two seasons.
Reunion with a Familiar Face in Washington
In Washington, Olsen will be reuniting with Daronte Jones, a former LSU defensive coordinator. Olsen's tenure as an analyst at LSU overlapped with Jones's single season as the Tigers' defensive coordinator. Jones's recent appointment as Washington's new defensive coordinator facilitated Olsen's move, bringing them back together in a new professional capacity.
Filling the Void: Potential Replacements for the Safeties Coach Role
Olsen's departure leaves a vacancy in LSU's coaching staff. The program boasts a strong talent pool in the safeties position, with returning players TaMarcus Cooley and DaShawn Spears, along with transfer portal addition Ty Benefield from Boise State. This talent provides a solid foundation for any incoming coach.
Strategic Options for LSU's Defensive Backfield
Several possibilities exist for filling the coaching void. Corey Raymond, who currently coaches the corners, could potentially expand his responsibilities to oversee all defensive backs. Another option involves Blake Baker, who has previous experience coaching safeties at Arkansas State and Louisiana Tech, taking on the STAR position this season. Additionally, LSU could consider promoting an existing analyst or bringing in an external candidate to fill the on-field coaching role, offering various strategic directions for the team's defensive structure.