LSU football has made significant moves recently, securing its top 2025 recruit and enhancing its roster through transfers as the program aims to bounce back from last season’s disappointments. Five-star cornerback DJ Pickett joined the Tigers for bowl practice, demonstrating his commitment to contributing right away. According to On3 Industry Rankings, Pickett is the No. 10 overall recruit for 2025 and ranks as the top cornerback. LSU head coach Brian Kelly expressed confidence in Pickett’s potential to deliver immediate results, emphasizing his lockdown corner skills.
LSU's reputation as 'DBU' (Defensive Back University) has come under scrutiny with recent years reflecting declines in landing top defensive talent. Historically, the Tigers produced NFL-caliber defensive backs regularly. With Pickett’s signing, LSU hopes to reclaim its status as the premier destination for elite cornerbacks.
Meanwhile, LSU’s approach to the NCAA Transfer Portal has showcased its aggressive strategy, with Coach Kelly confirming 13 new commitments to date. The LSU Tigers currently hold second place for the Transfer Portal Class rankings nationwide—an extraordinary feat intended to replace talent lost after last season’s 8-4 finish. Kelly stated, “We needed time to develop young players... but now it’s time to roster build.” This signifies LSU’s intention to strengthen its lineup and position for SEC competition.
The incoming transfer class is particularly noteworthy, with seven of the Top-100 transfers joining the Tigers. This includes standout talents like Patrick Payton, who clinched the title of No. 1 EDGE transfer. Payton’s transition from Florida State to LSU brings him to Baton Rouge with impressive stats: 109 tackles, 32 tackles for loss, and 16 sacks amassed over three seasons. Coach Kelly views Payton as pivotal for enhancing the defensive front.
Two other key transfers featured are Nic Anderson and Mansoor Delane. Anderson, marked as the No. 5 wide receiver, previously set records at Oklahoma for touchdown receptions by a freshman. His return from injury is highly anticipated, presenting newfound hope for enhancing the Tigers' passing attack. Delane, ranked as the No. 2 cornerback transfer, brings depth and experience to the secondary, complementing Pickett’s addition.
Quarterback Michael Van Buren Jr., recently transferred from Mississippi State, is another significant addition to LSU's roster. Van Buren started the last eight games of his freshman season and boasted commendable performances, including 11 touchdowns and over 1,800 passing yards. He was recognized as SEC Freshman of the Week following standout performances against teams like Georgia and Texas A&M. With his SEC experience, he adds depth at the quarterback position alongside freshman Colin Hurley, likely positioning himself just below Garrett Nussmeier on the offensive depth chart.
The incoming roster will also rejuvenate LSU’s edge rushing unit, primarily with the acquisitions of Payton and Jack Pyburn, both highly-rated players bringing proven ability and statistics from their previous programs. Pyburn, rated as the No. 6 EDGE, enjoyed a strong season with the Florida Gators, contributing significantly to their defense. Jimari Butler, joining from Nebraska, rounds out this trio as yet another promising edge rusher, offering versatility with his prior stats from the Cornhuskers.
These strategic moves constituted part of Kelly's broader vision for the Tigers, intending to 'win now' after a season deemed below expectations. He noted, “We have a strong young nucleus... where we can put together an SEC Championship roster.” LSU aims at revitalizing its traditions of excellence on the field by strategically bolstering various facets of the squad.
The 2025 season promises to be pivotal for the LSU Tigers. With their top recruit already making waves during practice and the depth and talent available from the transfer portal, there’s renewed optimism within the fanbase. The combination of seasoned stalwarts and freshman firepower is likely to restore both excitement and competitive spirit—key elements for aspiring champions. The aggressive recruitment strategy reflects the proactive approach Kelley has embraced, reminiscent of bygone days of glory under previous successful LSU regimes.
With the momentum growing, LSU Football is gearing up for what could be both exhilarating and transformative. For die-hard fans, the coming season will present challenges, victories, and the revival of the storied traditions accompanying 'the Bayou Bengals.'
