LSU football: Ed Orgeron addresses future career plans

After news broke Sunday morning that LSU reached a mutual agreement with football coach Ed Orgeron to part ways after the 2021 season, a press conference was scheduled. Orgeron made it clear he remains 100 percent invested in the LSU program through the end of 2021 but left his future options open.

“There’s some things I want to do, there’s some places I want to go and some things I want to be a part of,” Orgeron told reporters. “But I’m not really sure yet.”

After shooting down an LSU beat writer’s question about 2022 openings, Ed Orgeron made it clear he does not plan to coach in the immediate future. Despite that, he chuckled about his stance only holding value today.

All jokes aside, the 60-year old coach appeared ready to take time away from the grind. He later made his priorities quite clear.

“I think I’ll have me enough money to buy a hamburger,” joked Orgeron, referencing his estimated $16.9 million buyout. “I ain’t going to tell you what Coco said. She wanted to make sure I got my money.”

Content with LSU’s decision, Ed Orgeron and his family remain invested in football. With three sons all focused on future coaching careers, an Orgeron will likely appear on the sidelines in some capacity.

Ed Orgeron finishing the season

According to LSU athletic director Scott Woodward, who also provided a glowing review of Ed Orgeron’s tenure, the head coach is not focused on the future. In fact, he spent Sunday reviewing game film ahead of Saturday’s road trip against No. 12 Ole Miss.

“Tough schedule ahead, we’ll take it one day at a time,” said Orgeron. “I’m glad we got this out of the way so tomorrow we can focus on Ole Miss.”

After Sunday’s team meeting and press conference, Orgeron and his staff continued preparation for Tell the Truth Monday. Despite convensional wisdom, neither party seems worried about team chemistry over the coming weeks.

After Ole Miss, LSU receives a needed bye. The final run of the season includes games against Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana-Monroe and Texas A&M. Currently 4-3, there is no guarantee the Tigers become bowl eligible, but if they do, Orgeron will continue coaching.

LSU will continue without many injured starters. The list includes cornerbacks Derek Stingley Jr. and Eli Ricks, wide receiver Kayshon Boutte and defensive end Ali Gaye.

At the conclusion of Sunday’s press conference, Scott Woodward announced the hiring process is already underway but would not reveal any more details.