Sources tell FootballScoop that LSU is seeking to add a defensive coordinator from the ACC to wrap up their defensive staff rebuild.
Daronte Jones has been hired as defensive coordinator but multiple spots remain to be filled.
Miami defensive coordinator Blake Baker is a top target of Ed Orgeron's to join the Tigers staff, sources have shared. While Baker's role is not yet clear, a co-defensive coordinator / linebackers role may be in play.
Baker was brought to Miami by Manny Diaz after Diaz returned to Coral Gables as head coach following a few weeks leading the Temple program. The Miami job opened up after Mark Richt decided to retire, and Diaz reached out to Baker, his former right hand man at Louisiana Tech who replaced Diaz as defensive coordinator, to come run the 'Canes defense and coach the inside linebackers in 2019.
Baker served as defensive coordinator at Louisiana Tech four seasons. He also worked with Diaz at Texas.
The Canes defense ranked 51st in scoring defense this last season after ranking 23rd nationally in 2019.
A few weeks ago now, Diaz finalized some staff changes that marked a significant overhaul from the 2020 staff, including the note that Diaz planned to take over the defensive play calling.
A Houston native, Baker played collegiately at Tulane.
As always, stay tuned to The Scoop for the latest.
Update> Ross Dellenger is now reporting LSU is finalizing a deal with Baker.
And....LSU has now officially announced this hire.