LSU football officially announces key defensive staff addition

NCAAF College Football News, Photos, Stats, Scores, Schedule & Videos...

LSU football officially inked a deal with Sterling Lucas as the defensive line coach, announced Monday. He makes the jump from South Carolina, where he served as the defensive run game coordinator and defensive ends coach.

A mix of collegiate and professional coaching experience defines Lucas' career. He mentored several All-SEC defensive linemen in Columbia and worked with Pro Bowl defenders across the front seven at both of his NFL stops. Now, he brings that toolset to the promotion under Lane Kiffin in Baton Rouge.

Lucas played linebacker at NC State then joined the coaching staff upon graduation in 2013. He moved to the NFL in 2016, coaching defense in various roles with the Baltimore Ravens for five seasons before a brief stint with the Jacksonville Jaguars. In Baltimore, he coached Matthew Judon and C.J. Mosley.

When Lucas arrived in Columbia, he worked as the defensive ends and outside linebackers coach but took on more responsibilities prior to this season. He mentored All-SEC selections Dylan Stewart and Bryan Thomas Jr as well as Kyle Kennard, the 2024 SEC defensive player of the year.

Lucas is no stranger to the SEC competition and recruiting. Kiffin decided to give him a chance to build LSU's unit, which exceeded expectations in 2025 thanks to several transfer portal additions.

Last week, reports said Lucas had emerged as LSU's top target for the position. There were similar reports about Elijah Robinson earlier this month — LSU fans wanted to make sure this one got across the finish line.

This article originally appeared on LSU Wire: LSU football announces key addition to Lane Kiffin's staff

More at NCAAF College Football News, Photos, Stats, Scores, Schedule & Videos