Elko Uses Parenting Analogy to Describe LSU's Offseason Moves

September 11, 2026 - 00:17

Texas A&M head coach Mike Elko offered a colorful comparison this week when asked about LSU's roster activity during the offseason. Speaking with reporters, Elko said the process of players entering and exiting the program reminded him of something closer to home.

"It's a little bit of parenting," Elko said. "Sometimes you have to make decisions that aren't always popular, but you do what's best for the family."

The Aggies coach was addressing the broader landscape of roster management in college football, where the transfer portal and name, image and likeness deals have reshaped how programs build their teams. LSU has seen several players depart while bringing in new faces, a cycle that has become common across the Southeastern Conference.

Elko, entering his second season in College Station, has dealt with similar turnover. He noted that coaches must balance immediate needs with long term development, often making tough calls that players may not immediately understand.

"You are trying to teach, you are trying to guide, and sometimes you have to let them go," he said. "That is the hard part."

The Aggies and Tigers are set to meet during the upcoming season, adding another layer of intrigue to Elko's comments. Both programs are looking to climb in the SEC standings, and roster decisions made now could shape how that matchup unfolds.