Brian Kelly says when to expect a hire for LSU’s next defensive line coach

As coach Brian Kelly continues the search for LSU’s next defensive line coach, he said to expect a hire “within the next three weeks or so.”

Kelly updated the search timeline Tuesday and added that interim defensive line coach Gerald Chatman is a candidate for the full-time position.

Chatman, a defensive analyst, took over after former defensive line coach Jamar Cain left during spring practice to be a pass rush specialist with the Denver Broncos. Chatman was an LSU defensive analyst in 2021 and coached Colorado’s defensive line last season.

“We feel like we’re in a great situation with Gerald Chatman on staff,” Kelly said. “There was no rush like, ‘We’ve got to go find a defensive line coach.’ He’ll be a candidate for the position as well. We’ll begin that process once we finish up the spring.”

Kelly previously listed two requirements for potential candidates, which he called “1A, 1B” in his criteria. He wants an experienced coach who knows how to recruit within the Southeastern Conference and has a proven track record of developing players.

“If you would just look at assembling a staff in the SEC, look at the position groups that make such an important impact on your team,” Kelly said March 30. “You’re hard-pressed to say the defensive line is not as important as any position. Recruiter and talent developing has got to be at the top of the list.”

Kelly reiterated Tuesday the hire will come after spring practice ends April 22. Coaches can hit the road for recruiting evaluations then, which he said makes the process “a whole lot easier” because he will be able to visit candidates in-person along the way.

“It’s LSU,” Kelly said. “We’ve got a great list of candidates that have interest in it.”