In a significant shakeup within the Southeastern Conference coaching landscape, Frank Wilson, currently serving as LSU’s interim head coach and running backs coach, is preparing to depart Baton Rouge and accept a position on the Ole Miss football staff beginning in 2026. This move marks a notable departure for LSU, as Wilson has been a long-time figure in Tiger football both on and off the field. (louisianasports.net)
Wilson’s LSU Legacy and Interim Role
Wilson, a New Orleans native, has deep roots with LSU football. He first joined the Tigers in 2010 and served multiple stints on the coaching staff, most recently returning in 2021 to take on the role of running backs coach and associate head coach under former head coach Brian Kelly. Following Kelly’s firing during the 2025 season, Wilson was elevated to interim head coach and led the team through the remainder of the schedule, including the upcoming Texas Bowl. (LSU)
During his time with LSU, Wilson has been widely recognized for his recruiting prowess, particularly within Louisiana and the broader Southeast. He has helped bring in top talent and has been credited with contributing to multiple top-10 recruiting classes over the years. (LSU)
Joining Ole Miss: Returning to Familiar Ground
After the Texas Bowl, Wilson is expected to head to Oxford, Mississippi, where he will join the coaching staff of Ole Miss, which is currently being led by head coach Pete Golding. While specific details about his role have not been fully confirmed, reports strongly suggest Wilson will return as the running backs coach, a position he previously held during an earlier stint at Ole Miss from 2005 to 2007. (louisianasports.net)
This move represents a full circle for Wilson, who coached at Ole Miss early in his career and will re-enter the program at a time of renewed momentum in Oxford. It also underscores how coaching staffs across the SEC — already in flux — continue to evolve as teams prepare for the 2026 season.
Context Behind the Transition
Wilson’s departure from LSU comes amid a period of transition within the Tiger program. After Lane Kiffin was brought in as LSU’s new head coach, speculation arose about which members of the existing staff would stay on. Wilson was not retained by Kiffin, prompting him to pursue opportunities elsewhere. (SI)
Although Wilson publicly expressed his desire to remain at LSU, the reshuffling ultimately led him toward Ole Miss, where his extensive experience and recruiting network are expected to be valuable assets. The shift is also part of a broader pattern of staff movement between rival programs in the SEC, particularly involving assistants with strong regional ties.
Implications for LSU and Ole Miss
For LSU, losing a highly regarded recruiter and veteran assistant could have ripple effects, especially on recruiting and player retention. Some analysts have speculated that Wilson’s exit could influence player decisions in the transfer portal or even sway recruits who value his relationships and reputation.
At Ole Miss, the hire is considered a significant addition, bringing experience, familiarity with the league and a proven track record of developing talent. Wilson’s presence on staff is expected to bolster the Rebels’ position as they continue building their program under Golding’s leadership.
Looking Ahead
Frank Wilson’s move to Ole Miss is one of the most notable coaching changes in the SEC coaching carousel this offseason. With the 2026 season on the horizon and league schedules already beginning to take shape, the transition highlights how coaching continuity and personnel decisions play a major role in shaping the future competitiveness of SEC programs.
As Wilson settles into his new role — and as LSU fills the void left by his departure — fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how both teams fare with this latest chapter of SEC coaching drama unfolding. (on3.com)
