Tennessee fans can cross another name off the list of candidates when it comes to the next Volunteer defensive coordinator.

Knoxville-based WNML sports radio host Jimmy Hyams reported on Tuesday evening that Tennessee had offered current LSU linebackers coach and former Miami Hurricanes defensive coordinator Blake Baker the opportunity to serve as Josh Heupel’s first defensive coordinator on Rocky Top but now Hyams is reporting that Baker has decided to stay at LSU.

“Source: LSU assistant Blake Baker, who talked to Tennessee about the DC job, has decided to stay at LSU,” Hyams reported on Wednesday.

Baker would have been an interesting choice for Tennessee considering Manny Diaz was prepared to take away his defensive play-calling duties in 2021. Instead of staying in Miami, Baker left the Hurricanes just days ago to serve as Ed Orgeron’s new linebackers coach in Baton Rouge.

Contrary to Hyams’ report, a source tells SDS that Baker was “not involved” in Tennessee’s search for its next defensive coordinator.

While there has been much speculation regarding Ohio State linebacker coach Al Washington’s involvement in Tennessee’s search, the Buckeye assistant has yet to publicly announce his plans for the 2021 season. Until he does so, look for Washington to remain the focus of Tennessee’s defensive coordinator search.