AP Photo / Rogelio V. Solis

Ed Orgeron

An apparent deal that would have made Ed Orgeron the highest paid assistant coach at LSU spawned a more lucrative, late-night offer from Tennessee and according to a source close to the situation, Orgeron will now leave the New Orleans Saints for Rocky Top rather than Baton Rouge.

Nothing has been finalized, but a deal should be announced soon.  Tennessee pressed Orgeron late into Tuesday night according to the source and in the end, Orgeron felt a better fit would be with Lane Kiffin rather than Les Miles.  Kiffin and Orgeron worked together at USC.

Orgeron had been widely believed to be ready to accept a job at LSU as associate head coach and recruiting coordinator as well as to coach the defensive line. 

The Louisiana native spent last season as the Saints defensive line coach.  Before that he was the head coach at Ole Miss for three seasons. 

Orgeron is regarded as one of the nation's top recruiters.