LSU made headlines by securing Lane Kiffin as their head coach, luring him away from SEC rival Ole Miss earlier this year.

Kiffin had recently gained acclaim after leading Ole Miss to an impressive season, culminating in an 11-1 record and a No. 6 seed in the College Football Playoff. The Rebels reached the semifinals, where they were ultimately defeated by the Miami Hurricanes.

In his initial months at LSU, Kiffin constructed a strong roster through the transfer portal. His coaching staff boasts significant talent, highlighted by a recent addition on Wednesday.

Ed Orgeron is returning to LSU and will serve as the special assistant to recruiting and defense for the Tigers, the school announced on social media along with a photo of Orgeron and Kiffin shaking hands.

According to ESPN’s Pete Thamel, new recruiting rules permit Orgeron to actively recruit on the road for LSU. Known as an exceptional recruiter, Orgeron is also well-acquainted with LSU’s program and Kiffin’s approach, enabling him to effectively promote the school to prospective players.

Orgeron, at 64, is a familiar face for LSU supporters. He previously held the head coach position at LSU from 2016 to 2021, achieving a 51-20 record, three bowl victories, and securing a national championship in 2019. That championship team is often regarded as one of the greatest in college football history.

The legacy of the 2019 team is evident, as 13 players now compete in the NFL. Noteworthy names include quarterback Joe Burrow (Cincinnati Bengals), wide receivers Justin Jefferson (Minnesota Vikings) and Ja’Marr Chase (Cincinnati Bengals), along with others like guards Damien Lewis (Seattle Seahawks) and Ed Ingram (Houston Texans).

Orgeron’s experience extends beyond LSU. He served as head coach at USC in 2013 and Ole Miss between 2005 and 2007. His broad experience and stellar recruiting skills make him an invaluable asset to LSU’s coaching team.