Ed Orgeron to Tennessee?

Coach O is coming! Coach O is coming!

I admit, I have not been willing to believe any of the “Ed Orgeron to Tennessee” rumors. It just doesn’t make much sense to leave the NFL to take a similar position in college. Clearly that would be a step down.

But after listening to Chris Low this afternoon, I believe Ed Orgeron is coming to Tennessee. I’ve said all along, the only reason I gave this rumor any merit was because of the repeated mentions by Low. I’m convinced that he knows something on this one.

The first hurdle in getting someone like Orgeron here is money. I don’t know what NFL assistant coaches make, but I don’t think I’m going out on a limb to guess that it’s more than most college assistants earn.

Can Tennessee pay NFL money to a position coach like Orgeron?

I think so. Not only is Kiffin’s salary in the bottom echelon of the SEC, but Hamilton has acknowledged on several occasions that we are going to spend big money to assemble a great staff. I believe Tennessee is prepared to pay Orgeron NFL money.

Also consider there is a good chance Tennessee will not hire an offensive coordinator. Coach Kiffin has already hinted that he intends to call his own plays. Having the head coach fill one of the coordinator positions will free up a sizable sum of money that can be allotted to the assistants.

Why would Orgeron make a move that appears to be lateral at best?

It’s well known that Ed Orgeron loves the college game, specifically recruiting. By coming to Tennessee he gets to pursue his passion. Granted he would still be a position coach, but he will likely get another title such as Recruiting Coordinator or possibly Associate Head Coach.

So if the money is similar, he gets to do what he loves most and he gets a fancy title, why wouldn’t Ed Orgeron come to Tennessee?

Low also mentioned Coach O has already been poking around the program — and pondering how to convince Dan Williams to stay in school.