In an effort to bring stability to the defensive line coaching position, LSU head coach Brian Kelly is turning to a familiar face. Kelly has hired former Notre Dame defensive line coach, Mike Elston, to fill the same role at LSU.
Elston, who spent 11 seasons on Kelly’s staff at Notre Dame, is widely regarded as one of the top defensive line coaches in the country. During his tenure with the Fighting Irish, Elston helped develop several NFL-caliber defensive linemen, including Stephon Tuitt, Sheldon Day, and Isaac Rochell.
“Mike is an exceptional coach and an even better person,” Kelly said. “I’ve had the pleasure of working with him for over a decade, and I’ve seen firsthand the impact he can have on a defensive line. He’s a master technician, a great recruiter, and a true leader. We’re thrilled to have him join our staff at LSU.”
Elston’s hiring is a significant coup for Kelly and the LSU program, which has experienced a high level of turnover at the defensive line coach position in recent years. Since Ed Orgeron took over as head coach in 2016, LSU has had four different defensive line coaches.
“Mike’s experience and expertise will be a huge asset to our program,” Kelly said. “He’s a guy who has been in the trenches, who has coached in big games, and who has developed players at the highest level. We’re confident that he’ll be able to bring stability and consistency to our defensive line, and help us build a championship-caliber defense.”
Elston’s coaching philosophy is centered around developing a strong, physical defensive line that can dominate the line of scrimmage. He places a heavy emphasis on technique, fundamentals, and physicality, and is known for his ability to motivate and inspire his players.
“I’m excited to join the LSU family and be a part of Coach Kelly’s staff,” Elston said. “I’ve always had a tremendous amount of respect for the LSU program, and I’m looking forward to helping build a championship-caliber defense. I’m confident that my experience and expertise will be a valuable asset to the program, and I’m excited to get started.”
Elston’s hiring is the latest move in Kelly’s efforts to rebuild the LSU program. Since taking over as head coach, Kelly has made a number of significant hires, including the addition of former NFL coach, Frank Wilson, as associate head coach.
“We’re building a championship-caliber staff at LSU, and Mike Elston is a huge addition to our team,” Kelly said. “We’re excited to have him on board, and we’re confident that he’ll help us build a defensive line that can dominate the line of scrimmage.”
In conclusion, Brian Kelly’s decision to hire Mike Elston as defensive line coach is a significant move in his efforts to rebuild the LSU program. Elston’s experience, expertise, and coaching philosophy make him an ideal fit for the Tigers, and his hiring is a major coup for Kelly and the LSU program.