The Kansas City Chiefs have lost their linebackers coach to a high-profile collegiate role as Matt House heads to LSU to be their new defensive coordinator. LSU announced the hire on Tuesday via Twitter, finalizing a job search that included House in rumors with other finalists that surfaced a week ago.
House will be working under new LSU head coach Brian Kelly in his shift from Notre Dame. House’s ability to join the staff of one of college football’s most storied programs at the coordinator level will certainly enhance his future chances as well, assuming things go well for Kelly and company there in Baton Rouge.
The Chiefs first welcomed House to the team’s coaching staff as part of Steve Spagnuolo’s imports as the team’s new defensive coordinator in 2019. Spagnuolo brought in Brendan Daly from the New England Patriots to coach the defensive line, Sam Madison and Dave Merritt to coach the defensive backs, and House to coach his linebackers.
Matt House has left his post as the Chiefs linebackers coach to become LSU’s new DC.
House spent the three years before joining the Chiefs at the University of Kentucky where he grew to become the defensive coordinator, so he’s held this role within the SEC before. He was also defensive coordinator at Pitt and Florida International for three seasons combined before that.
It’s impossible to differentiate the work of a single assistant coach from others in a player’s development. However, a look at House’s body of work with the Chiefs shows a position group that has improved plenty with bright young talent. Willie Gay was a developmental prospect with a high ceiling but some significant boom/bust potential. Nick Bolton came in as a heralded run-stopper who also needed to grow in coverage. Both players have made a tremendous leap. That’s not to mention the way Anthony Hitchens has blossomed along with Ben Niemann filling an important role as a former rookie free agent.
At least one LSU alum who is familiar with House’s work is happy about the hire.
💜 I’m excited for coach House and all of tiger nation! This man loves football & teaching! One of the best I’ve been around. This tiger defense will be well coached from day one! Let’s all buy in!!! FOREVER LSU! https://t.co/qjAdLpiFEz
— Tyrann Mathieu (@Mathieu_Era) December 29, 2021
The Chiefs are likely to see more coaching changes in weeks to come as teams seek to hire away staff members from such a successful franchise.