After the conclusion of the 2024 season, Brian Kelly and the LSU Tigers witnessed a significant shift in their defensive lineup as former five-star recruit Sage Ryan entered the NCAA Transfer Portal. Ryan, who had been a key part of the Tigers’ defensive backfield for the past four seasons, made the decision to pursue his final year of eligibility at a new destination.
Ryan’s journey with LSU began when he joined the program as one of the top recruits in the country. Over his time with the Tigers, Ryan became a versatile defensive back, playing in various roles and earning valuable experience. By 2024, he had become a consistent fixture in LSU’s defense, contributing heavily in both the cornerback and safety positions.
In the 2024 season alone, Ryan appeared in every game, totaling more than 500 snaps in LSU’s defensive schemes. Throughout the regular season, he earned a starting spot in nine of the Tigers’ 12 games. Ryan’s impact was evident in his performance on the field, finishing the season with 42 tackles, including three tackles for loss. He also forced three fumbles, registered one sack, and broke up six passes, all while contributing an interception.
His all-around ability was a testament to his skill and adaptability, having demonstrated the capacity to excel in multiple positions within the secondary. By the end of his LSU career, Ryan had accumulated a total of 111 tackles, alongside three forced fumbles, 12 pass breakups, and a single interception. These statistics reflected his consistent presence on the field and his contributions in a variety of defensive situations.
While Ryan’s departure marks the end of an era at LSU, his decision to enter the Transfer Portal signals his next step in his football career. After four seasons with the Tigers, he is now looking ahead to a fresh chapter where he can continue to hone his skills and possibly make an even greater impact in his final collegiate season.
As one of the highly touted defensive backs coming out of high school, Ryan’s time at LSU demonstrated his promise and potential. His versatility and experience in both cornerback and safety roles made him a valuable asset for the Tigers throughout his tenure. Now, as he heads into the next phase of his college football journey, Ryan will likely seek a program that can maximize his talents and provide him with the opportunity to play at a high level in his final season of eligibility.
