LSU football’s coaching staff remained mostly intact following the 2024 season. The only change came at tight ends coach, with Slade Nagle leaving to take the offensive coordinator job at Houston. With Nagle out, LSU hired Alex Atkins to fill the role.
Atkins spent the last several years at Florida State, serving as the Seminoles’ offensive coordinator. Along with coaching tight ends, Atkins will take on the run game coordinator role with the Tigers.
Last week, LSU head coach Brian Kelly met with the media and discussed the impact Atkins will have.
“He brings a great deal of experience as a coordinator,” Kelly said, “But more importantly, his depth and background in the run game as an offensive line coach. He adds another perspective in that room with Brad (Davis),” Kelly said.
Kelly said Atkins won’t be stepping on Davis’ toes, LSU’s offensive line coach.
“This is really having somebody that will coach the tight ends and have a specific focus towards our run game and how it marries and matches to what I’m looking for in our overall offensive structure,” Kelly said.
Kelly said LSU felt it needed a coach with an eye on the run game every day. Given his experience as a play-caller, Atkins has experience building every element of an offense. He can bring a big-picture view to LSU’s rushing attack.
LSU struggled on the ground last year in Joe Sloan’s first year as offensive coordinator. The passing game was efficient, but the offense didn’t gel. With Atkins in the building, Sloan can do what he does best while getting Atkins input with the run game.
This article originally appeared on LSU Wire: LSU coach Brian Kelly reveals impact Alex Atkins will have on staff
