Brian Kelly’s Opinions: Examining the Most Recent Transfer Signees for LSU Football
The 2023-2024 college football transfer portal has been a significant point of focus for many programs, and LSU football is no exception. Head coach Brian Kelly has been at the forefront of rebuilding the LSU Tigers into an elite powerhouse in the SEC, and his strategic use of the transfer portal has played a crucial role in the team’s success. As LSU continues to chase national championship aspirations, Kelly’s approach to building a roster through transfers has become a key storyline for the program.
This article will examine Brian Kelly’s opinions on LSU’s most recent transfer signees, evaluating how each addition fits into the team’s plans and overall vision. We’ll break down the importance of these transfers, what Kelly has said about them, and what their potential impact could be in the 2024 season.
The Transfer Portal Landscape
Since taking over at LSU in 2022, Kelly has made clear that the transfer portal would be a crucial component of his roster-building strategy. While recruiting high school talent remains the backbone of any successful program, the portal has allowed Kelly to quickly address immediate needs, particularly in a conference as competitive as the SEC.
The portal allows teams to plug in experienced players who can contribute right away, unlike the traditional recruiting cycle where freshmen typically need time to adjust to the college game. For Kelly, it has been an opportunity to upgrade key positions, bolster depth, and bring in players who can help the team reach its goals faster. His approach to utilizing the portal emphasizes finding players who are not only talented but also fit the culture of LSU and can quickly adapt to the high expectations of SEC football.
Key Transfer Signees for LSU
In the 2023-2024 transfer portal cycle, LSU landed several high-profile players who are expected to have an immediate impact. Let’s dive into some of the most important signings and how Brian Kelly views them:
1. Denver Harris (CB) – Texas A&M Transfer
One of the most significant additions to LSU’s secondary is Denver Harris, a former 5-star recruit who transferred from Texas A&M. Harris, who played for the Aggies as a true freshman, is expected to play a crucial role in LSU’s defense moving forward. His talent is undeniable, and his ability to shut down opposing wide receivers will be vital in the high-powered SEC offenses LSU faces regularly.
Brian Kelly has expressed excitement about Harris’ potential, citing his impressive physical tools and his ability to play both man and zone coverage effectively. Kelly mentioned that Harris’ previous SEC experience would allow him to step into a starting role quickly, alleviating some of the pressure on LSU’s younger cornerbacks.
What stands out about Harris is his blend of size, speed, and technique. He has the physical traits to be a shutdown corner at the college level, and Kelly has emphasized that Harris will need to work on refining his fundamentals and adjusting to LSU’s defensive system. However, Kelly has shown confidence that Harris’ natural talent and work ethic will allow him to make an immediate impact.
2. Aaron Anderson (WR) – Alabama Transfer
Aaron Anderson, a former 4-star wide receiver from Alabama, comes to LSU with a lot of potential. Anderson has the speed and athleticism to be a game-changer on the outside for LSU’s offense. Although he didn’t see much playing time at Alabama, his skill set is undeniable, and Kelly has been vocal about how Anderson fits into LSU’s fast-paced, explosive offensive scheme.
Kelly has praised Anderson’s work ethic, describing him as a player who could add a new dimension to LSU’s wide receiver corps. Anderson’s ability to stretch the field and provide a reliable target in the passing game is something that LSU needs, especially as they look to develop more weapons for quarterback Jayden Daniels. With Kayshon Boutte leaving for the NFL, Anderson’s speed and playmaking ability make him a valuable addition to the receiving unit.
Kelly’s optimism for Anderson stems from his understanding of what the young receiver can bring to LSU’s offense. He believes Anderson has the ability to thrive in a high-tempo, wide-open system, and his presence could elevate LSU’s passing game to new heights. Whether Anderson becomes a starter or a dynamic playmaker in key situations, his addition gives Kelly another weapon in his arsenal.
3.
Jalen Lee
(DT) – Florida Transfer
LSU’s defensive line has been a strong point for the team in recent years, and Jalen Lee’s addition via the transfer portal should help maintain that dominance. Lee, a former top recruit out of high school, transferred from Florida and brings with him a wealth of experience playing in the SEC. The defensive line is often the first line of defense against opposing offenses, and Lee’s presence adds both depth and experience to LSU’s front.
Brian Kelly has spoken highly of Lee’s ability to disrupt the line of scrimmage and his tenacity in run defense. Lee’s size and strength make him a formidable presence in the middle of LSU’s defensive front, and his ability to collapse the pocket and generate pressure on opposing quarterbacks is something that Kelly values highly. Lee’s leadership and experience will also be critical as LSU continues to compete at the highest level in the SEC.
While Lee may not be the flashiest name on the roster, his role in controlling the line of scrimmage cannot be overstated. Kelly views him as a key player in LSU’s defensive system, especially in the SEC, where dominating the trenches is essential to winning games.
4. Logan Diggs (RB) – Notre Dame Transfer
The running back position has been a point of focus for Brian Kelly since his arrival at LSU, and the addition of Logan Diggs from Notre Dame adds a new layer of depth to the Tigers’ backfield. Diggs, who led the Fighting Irish in rushing yards in 2023, brings with him a wealth of experience and is capable of being a workhorse back in the SEC.
Kelly has praised Diggs’ ability to run between the tackles, his vision, and his durability. LSU’s running game will be crucial in balancing the offense and keeping opposing defenses honest, and Diggs has the ability to carry the load in that regard. Kelly has emphasized that Diggs’ ability to run in a physical, downhill style fits well with LSU’s offensive line and ground-and-pound mentality.
With LSU needing to replace some key pieces in their running back rotation, Diggs has the potential to be a key figure in the 2024 season. His experience in the high-pressure environment of Notre Dame football, combined with his talent, makes him a valuable addition to LSU’s offense.
5. Ovie Oghoufo (OLB) – Notre Dame Transfer
Ovie Oghoufo is another transfer from Notre Dame who figures to play an important role in LSU’s defense. As an outside linebacker, Oghoufo brings a combination of speed, pass-rushing ability, and coverage skills that could make him an important piece in LSU’s defensive scheme. Kelly has expressed excitement about Oghoufo’s versatility, noting that he can rush the passer but also be trusted to cover running backs and tight ends in space.
Oghoufo’s ability to create pressure off the edge and his experience in high-level programs like Notre Dame will be essential for LSU’s defense, especially as they face high-caliber quarterbacks and offenses throughout the SEC. His athleticism and football IQ make him a valuable piece in Brian Kelly’s defensive puzzle.
Brian Kelly’s Philosophy on Transfers
Throughout his tenure at LSU, Brian Kelly has been consistent in his approach to the transfer portal. He prioritizes players who not only fill immediate needs but also align with LSU’s culture of discipline, work ethic, and competitiveness. Kelly has made it clear that he won’t take just any player from the portal; instead, he is focused on finding individuals who will elevate the team both on and off the field.
Kelly has also emphasized the importance of balance in roster construction. While the transfer portal is an essential tool, Kelly continues to value traditional high school recruiting, building the program’s future while addressing current needs. His strategy of blending high school talent with experienced transfers has been instrumental in the program’s quick return to national relevance.
