As LSU Football gears up for the 2024 season, the program has a few key needs remaining in the transfer portal market. While LSU has already had a strong showing in the portal, bolstering their roster with talented players from various programs, there are still significant areas where Coach Brian Kelly and his staff must focus their attention. Below, we will break down the three biggest needs for LSU in the portal market to ensure they continue their rise among the nation’s elite programs.
1. Defensive Line Depth and Pass Rush
The LSU Tigers’ defensive line has long been a source of strength, with the program traditionally producing NFL-caliber defensive linemen. However, as LSU aims to stay competitive with the top teams in the SEC, it’s clear that the defensive front will need to be reinforced through the portal. The 2023 season was a mixed bag for LSU’s defensive line, which featured strong performances but lacked the consistency required for an elite unit. A key concern for LSU moving forward is the pass rush, which had been inconsistent throughout the 2023 season.
While players like Maason Smith, who missed much of the season due to injury, and Mekhi Wingo have shown promise, LSU needs more depth to remain a dominant force. A consistent, game-changing pass rusher could elevate the Tigers to a higher level of play on defense. LSU has already added some key pieces, but an additional impact player or two would strengthen the defensive line and provide that much-needed edge-rusher presence.
The SEC is known for its physical play in the trenches, and LSU must continue to recruit at a high level on the defensive line to compete with rivals like Alabama, Georgia, and Auburn. Bringing in an experienced pass rusher through the portal, one who can contribute immediately, should be a top priority. Ideally, LSU would target a player who can play both the inside and outside positions, adding versatility and depth to a group that could use more depth for rotation.
2. Linebacker Playmaking and Depth
Linebacker is another position where LSU must address its needs heading into the 2024 season. The Tigers were solid at linebacker last year, but there was a noticeable lack of elite playmaking ability, particularly in the coverage and run-stopping departments. LSU had difficulty stopping opposing running backs at times, and while the defense had several strong performances, there were games where the Tigers were gashed by opposing offenses.
The linebacker corps is crucial for LSU’s defensive success, particularly in the pass-happy SEC, where tight ends and running backs frequently exploit mismatches in the passing game. LSU has some talented players in place, but depth and overall talent at linebacker remain significant needs. The Tigers need an experienced linebacker who can step in and become an immediate contributor in both run defense and coverage.
In addition to the defensive line, the linebacking corps is one area where LSU can still upgrade through the transfer portal. A player who has experience at the Power 5 level and can contribute in coverage as well as be a force in stopping the run is invaluable. LSU will likely be on the lookout for an experienced linebacker who can immediately slot into a leadership role and help develop the younger players already on the roster. Ideally, this would be a player with high football IQ who understands the intricacies of SEC offenses and can provide stability for the Tigers’ defense.
One potential target for LSU could be an experienced linebacker from a Power 5 school who may be looking for a larger role. LSU’s defensive scheme requires versatility from its linebackers, and a player who can seamlessly fit into this system while providing instant impact would be a huge addition. In a competitive conference like the SEC, where offenses are increasingly dynamic, having a linebacker with playmaking ability can make the difference in critical games.
3. Wide Receiver Playmaking Ability
While LSU’s offense has flourished under Brian Kelly, one area that still needs attention is the wide receiver position. The Tigers have a strong quarterback in Jayden Daniels and a talented group of skill players, but LSU lacks a clear-cut game-breaking wide receiver. The team has good options at wide receiver, but there is a need for an elite, dynamic playmaker who can consistently win matchups on the outside and stretch the field.
LSU has a strong tradition of producing elite wide receivers, and the program is looking to add a player who can maintain that tradition. Adding a wide receiver who can make an immediate impact and help take the offense to another level is essential for the Tigers. A player who can win contested catches, outrun defenders, and create separation on deep routes would complement LSU’s other offensive weapons and allow the offense to diversify.
While LSU has experienced playmakers like Malik Nabers, who can make plays in space, an additional true outside threat would provide a valuable weapon for Daniels in the passing game. A deep threat can open up lanes in the run game and create mismatches in the red zone. With the success of offensive schemes that rely on wide receivers to create big plays, LSU will likely seek out a transfer wide receiver who can stretch the field, create explosive plays, and be a reliable target on third downs.
As it stands, the wide receiver group at LSU has a lot of talent but lacks an elite, go-to option. Bringing in a wide receiver with experience at a high level, especially one from a program with a potent passing offense, would be a game-changing move for the Tigers.
