Ole Miss Eyes LSU Transfer Coen Echols as Portal Strategy Takes Shape

The Ole Miss Rebels are preparing a major push into the NCAA Transfer Portal next month. New head coach Pete Golding is targeting immediate reinforcements for the 2026 roster. This aggressive approach comes amid a busy period of staff hiring and playoff preparation in Oxford.

The Rebels’ strategy gained a significant advantage with a key December hire. According to reports, bringing LSU running backs coach Frank Wilson onto the staff created a direct pipeline. This connection now gives Ole Miss a potential inside track on departing LSU players.

LSU Lineman Coen Echols Enters Transfer Portal

LSU offensive lineman Coen Echols officially entered the transfer portal on December 23rd. The redshirt-freshman announced his decision in a social media statement. Echols thanked the LSU coaching staff and his teammates for his time in Baton Rouge.

He started seven games for the Tigers during the 2025 season. Echols played 583 total snaps, primarily at guard. The 6-foot-4, 315-pound lineman will have three years of eligibility remaining at his new school.

His on-field performance provides a clear picture for suitors. Data from Pro Football Focus shows Echols earned a 67.8 pass blocking grade this fall. His run blocking grade was marked at 51.3 for the season.

Frank Wilson Connection Fuels Ole Miss Pursuit

The hiring of Frank Wilson is now a central part of Ole Miss’s portal plans. Wilson’s deep relationships at LSU provide critical intelligence and access. This move is a deliberate tactic by Golding to strengthen the Rebels’ roster quickly.

Ole Miss is expected to actively evaluate Echols as a potential target. The need for experienced, SEC-tested interior linemen is high. Echols’ extensive playing time in the nation’s toughest conference makes him an attractive option.

The Rebels must build offensive line depth for the future. Securing a player like Echols would address a key position of need. It would also signal Ole Miss’s intent to compete aggressively in the new-look SEC.

Ole Miss is positioning itself as a major player in the upcoming Transfer Portal window. The pursuit of talents like Coen Echols demonstrates a clear and proactive strategy. This approach could define the early success of the Pete Golding era in Oxford.

Info at your fingertips

Who is Coen Echols?

Coen Echols is a redshirt-freshman offensive lineman from LSU. He started seven games at guard for the Tigers in the 2025 season and has entered the transfer portal with three years of eligibility left.

Why would Ole Miss want him?

Ole Miss needs to bolster its interior offensive line with experienced players. Echols has proven he can play significant snaps in the SEC, making him a valuable and ready-made transfer target for the Rebels.

What is Frank Wilson’s role in this?

Frank Wilson was recently hired by Ole Miss from LSU. His direct experience coaching Echols and relationships within the LSU program give Ole Miss a strategic advantage in recruiting him through the portal.

When does the transfer portal open?

The next major transfer window opens in January. Ole Miss is actively evaluating targets like Echols now so they can move quickly once the portal officially opens for new entries.

How did Echols perform at LSU?

According to Pro Football Focus, Echols played 583 snaps in 2025. He earned a pass blocking grade of 67.8, showing competency in protecting the quarterback during his time on the field.