The Commanders are Expected to Hire LSU Safeties Coach Jake Olsen, Sources Tell @CBSSports

The Washington Commanders are continuing to reshape their coaching staff — and this time, they’re dipping into the college ranks.

According to CBS Sports, the Commanders are expected to hire Jake Olsen, most recently the safeties coach at LSU Tigers football.

If finalized, the move signals Washington’s continued push toward younger, development-focused coaching talent with fresh schematic perspective.

Why Jake Olsen Is on Washington’s Radar

Olsen built a reputation at LSU as a detail-oriented defensive backs coach known for:

• Strong technique development
• Emphasis on communication in the secondary
• Aggressive coverage principles
• Recruiting and player relationship skills

At LSU, defensive backs are expected to play fast, physical, and disciplined — traits Washington has been trying to solidify in its secondary.

The Commanders’ pass defense showed flashes last season but lacked consistent cohesion. Olsen’s background suggests a focus on tightening fundamentals while maintaining versatility.

What This Means for the Commanders’ Secondary

The NFL is a passing league. If you can’t cover, you can’t compete.

Adding Olsen could impact:

 Safety Play and Communication

Safeties are the quarterbacks of the secondary. Improving their positioning and communication alone can reduce explosive plays.

 Turnover Production

College coaches often bring aggressive ball-hawking philosophies. If Olsen translates that mentality to Washington, expect a stronger emphasis on forcing takeaways.

 Player Development

Young defensive backs on the roster could benefit most. Olsen’s college background suggests a hands-on teaching approach — critical for emerging talent.

Why Washington Is Tapping College Coaching Talent

This move fits a broader league trend.

NFL teams are increasingly hiring from top college programs to bring in:

• Modern coverage concepts
• Flexible scheme adaptability
• Development-first coaching styles

Programs like LSU regularly produce NFL-ready defensive backs. That pipeline matters.

If Washington believes Olsen can replicate LSU’s defensive back discipline at the pro level, this could be a quietly impactful hire.

The Bigger Picture: A Coordinated Coaching Reset

The Commanders have already made notable changes across the staff. Adding Olsen would further reinforce the theme:

• Youth
• Energy
• Technical precision
• Scheme flexibility

It’s not just about changing faces — it’s about reshaping philosophy.

Fan Reaction: Intrigue Over Splash

This isn’t a headline-grabbing hire — and that’s not a bad thing.

Commanders fans understand that elite teams are often built through smart positional coaching upgrades, not just big-name acquisitions.

If Olsen develops Washington’s safeties into a disciplined, turnover-producing unit, the impact will show up in the win column.

Final Thoughts: A Subtle but Strategic Move

The Commanders appear committed to building from the inside out — and that includes coaching.

Jake Olsen’s expected arrival, as first reported by CBS Sports, may not dominate national headlines. But if he elevates communication, technique, and playmaking in the secondary, Washington’s defense could quietly take a major step forward.

Sometimes the smartest moves aren’t the loudest ones.