Bo Davis, a distinguished defensive line coach with extensive experience in both collegiate and professional football, recently departed LSU to join the New Orleans Saints as their defensive line coach. This transition has raised concerns about a potential mass exodus from LSU’s football program, particularly among recruits and current players closely associated with Davis.
Davis’s coaching journey is notable for its breadth and success. A former LSU defensive lineman from 1992-94, he began his coaching career as a graduate assistant at LSU from 1995-97 and later served as the assistant strength and conditioning coach during LSU’s 2003 national championship season. His coaching résumé includes stints at Texas, Alabama, the Jacksonville Jaguars, and the Detroit Lions, among others. In 2024, Davis returned to LSU as the defensive line coach, significantly improving the Tigers’ defense. Under his guidance, LSU’s defense improved from 105th nationally in total defense in 2023 to 61st in 2024, and their run defense improved from 85th to 51st. citeturn0search2
Davis’s departure is particularly impactful due to his exceptional recruiting skills. Known for building strong personal relationships with recruits, he played a pivotal role in assembling LSU’s 2025 recruiting class. This class includes four freshman defensive tackles, notably Richard Anderson, a prospect nearing a 5-star rating. Davis was also central in ongoing negotiations with 4-star prospects Dyrrus McKinley and Dylan Berymon. His exit has raised concerns that these recruits may reconsider their commitments to LSU, especially if other top programs, such as Ohio State, Notre Dame, or Alabama, express interest. citeturn0search0
The potential impact extends beyond incoming recruits to current players. Key defensive linemen on LSU’s roster, including Ahmad Breaux, Jacobian Guillory, Dominick McKinley, and Texas transfer Sydir Mitchell, were significantly influenced by Davis. His departure could lead these players to explore opportunities elsewhere, posing a challenge for LSU’s coaching staff to retain them. citeturn0search0
Several factors may have contributed to Davis’s decision to leave LSU. While the allure of coaching in the NFL is significant, reports suggest other considerations. Matt Moscona, in the “After Further Review Podcast,” noted that Davis’s strength lies in building relationships with recruits. The evolving landscape of college football recruiting, increasingly influenced by financial incentives, may have been off-putting to someone who values personal connections. Additionally, there was reported frustration regarding the lack of resources invested in the defensive line, which could have influenced his decision to transition to the NFL. citeturn0search0
LSU’s football program has experienced significant coaching staff changes under head coach Brian Kelly. In early 2024, Kelly parted ways with four defensive assistants, including defensive coordinator Matt House, following a season where the defense ranked 105th nationally in total defense and 81st in scoring defense. These changes underscore a period of transition and restructuring within the program. citeturn0search4
In summary, Bo Davis’s departure to the New Orleans Saints represents a significant shift for LSU’s football program. His exceptional coaching and recruiting abilities have been instrumental in recent successes. His exit raises concerns about potential decommitments from recruits and transfers among current players. The evolving dynamics of college football recruiting and internal program challenges may have influenced his decision. Moving forward, it is imperative for LSU’s coaching staff to address these challenges to maintain stability and continue their pursuit of excellence.
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