The LSU Football Transfer Portal Update: Who Is Joining the Tigers and Who Is Leaving?

As college football programs continue to evolve in the era of the transfer portal, LSU Tigers football has been at the forefront of a major transformation, both in terms of player acquisitions and departures. With the NCAA Transfer Portal now being a significant factor in how teams build their rosters, LSU’s use of this tool reflects a strategy to enhance its championship aspirations while dealing with the inevitable turnover of players each offseason.

Since head coach Brian Kelly took the reins of the LSU program, the Tigers have seen substantial changes, and the transfer portal has played an essential role in shaping the team’s success. For LSU, the balance between retaining its top talent and adding new players through the portal is crucial for maintaining the competitiveness that the program is known for. As of December 2024, several notable players have either entered the portal or committed to LSU, and this detailed update will break down who is leaving Baton Rouge, who is joining the team, and what these moves mean for the Tigers’ future.

Players Departing LSU

The transfer portal can be both a tool of opportunity and uncertainty for college football programs. For LSU, the 2024 offseason saw several players enter the portal, each for their own reasons, whether it be for more playing time, a change of scenery, or the pursuit of better opportunities at another school. Although some departures are inevitable given the landscape of modern college football, others may leave LSU fans wondering about the impact of these exits on the team’s future. Let’s take a look at some of the notable players who have entered the portal from LSU’s roster.

1. Jyaire Brown (CB) While Jyaire Brown’s decision to enter the transfer portal initially sent shockwaves through the LSU community, his situation ended on a positive note with his eventual decision to return to LSU and reaffirm his commitment to the Tigers. However, his brief flirtation with the portal reflects the challenges players face in determining their place within a highly competitive program.
2. Mekhi Wingo (DT) Mekhi Wingo, who was a pivotal part of LSU’s defensive line, entered the transfer portal early in the offseason. As a strong presence in the trenches, Wingo had played an essential role in LSU’s defense over the past seasons, but after some difficult decisions, he opted for a fresh start. This move marks a significant gap for LSU in its defensive front, and the Tigers will have to work hard to find a replacement who can match his level of production.
3. Zy Alexander (CB) Zy Alexander, another key member of LSU’s secondary, made the decision to enter the transfer portal as well. His departure from Baton Rouge leaves a hole in a defense that had grown accustomed to his skills and consistency on the field. LSU will need to find new talent in the secondary to fill the void left by his exit.
4. Jalen Lee (DT) Jalen Lee was another defensive lineman who decided to test the waters of the transfer portal. As a player who contributed to LSU’s success in the trenches, his decision to leave will require LSU’s coaching staff to work diligently in finding his replacement.
5. Greg Brooks Jr. (S) A former transfer player himself, Greg Brooks Jr. has decided to enter the portal once again after contributing to LSU’s defense for several seasons. His departure marks the end of a significant tenure in the secondary, as he was a player who brought a lot of experience and leadership to the field. LSU’s defense will need to regroup and find the right fit for Brooks’ role.
6. Brian Thomas Jr. (WR) As one of the most talented receivers on LSU’s roster, Brian Thomas Jr.’s decision to enter the transfer portal caught many by surprise. The move leaves a void in LSU’s receiving corps, and the team will have to look for other players to step up and contribute in the passing game.

Players Joining LSU

While departures are inevitable, LSU has made significant strides in the transfer portal to bolster its roster for the upcoming season. Under Brian Kelly’s leadership, the Tigers have been active in recruiting players who can immediately contribute to the program’s success. Let’s take a look at some of the key additions to the LSU football team via the transfer portal.

1. Jaden Rashada (QB) One of the most high-profile additions for LSU is quarterback Jaden Rashada, who transferred from the University of Arizona. As a highly touted quarterback coming out of high school, Rashada brings a lot of potential to the LSU offense. His arrival provides LSU with another dynamic playmaker at the quarterback position, further solidifying the depth at that key position.
2. Trey Benson (RB) After a stellar career at Oregon, Trey Benson has committed to LSU to join the Tigers’ backfield. As a powerful and fast running back, Benson will provide the team with a reliable option in the running game, complementing LSU’s already strong offensive line. His arrival adds depth to a position group that was already in need of a boost following the departure of several key players.
3. Samson Okunlola (OL) Offensive line play has been a key focus for LSU in the transfer portal, and the addition of Samson Okunlola gives the Tigers a high-profile player in this area. Okunlola’s physicality and blocking ability will immediately upgrade the offensive line, which has been a vital component of LSU’s offensive strategy under Brian Kelly. His experience and talent will be essential for both the running and passing game.
4. Tony Grimes (CB) LSU bolstered its secondary with the addition of cornerback Tony Grimes, who transferred from North Carolina. Grimes is a highly skilled defensive back with a great ability to cover wide receivers and disrupt passing lanes. His talent and leadership in the secondary will be crucial for LSU’s defensive scheme and will help to make up for the loss of some key players at cornerback.
5. Jahmyr Gibbs (RB) LSU’s backfield got even stronger with the addition of running back Jahmyr Gibbs, a transfer from Georgia Tech. Gibbs brings a combination of speed, power, and excellent vision as a running back, making him an ideal complement to Trey Benson. The two players will form a dynamic tandem that will give LSU’s offense a versatile running attack.
6. Ben Davis (LB) A major addition to LSU’s linebacker corps is Ben Davis, who transferred from Alabama. Davis has been known for his physicality and leadership, making him an ideal fit for LSU’s defense. His experience and familiarity with high-level SEC play will help solidify LSU’s linebacker unit as one of the most competitive in the conference.
7. Chris Marshall (WR) Another key addition to LSU’s wide receiving corps is Chris Marshall, a standout transfer from Texas A&M. Marshall brings size, speed, and big-play potential to the Tigers’ offense. With the departure of Brian Thomas Jr., Marshall’s ability to stretch the field and make contested catches will provide a much-needed boost to LSU’s passing game.
8. Keaontay Ingram (RB) LSU’s running back depth got a boost with the addition of Keaontay Ingram, a dynamic back known for his elusive moves and ability to change the course of a game. With LSU’s focus on a balanced offense, Ingram’s versatility will complement the existing backfield and provide options for head coach Brian Kelly to employ a more diverse offensive attack.

Key Takeaways: LSU’s Future Outlook

While the LSU Tigers have experienced some player departures, they have also made significant moves to ensure that their roster remains strong and competitive in the 2024 season and beyond. The combination of key incoming transfers and the return of talented players gives LSU a deep and well-rounded roster capable of competing for the SEC title and potentially securing a spot in the College Football Playoff.

Brian Kelly’s strategic use of the transfer portal has allowed LSU to plug critical gaps in their roster, particularly at positions such as quarterback, cornerback, running back, and offensive line. As LSU’s roster continues to evolve, the coaching staff has proven to be adept at identifying the right players to add to the program, ensuring that the Tigers stay at the top of college football.

With a roster bolstered by experienced transfers and a talented crop of returning players, LSU enters the 2024 season with high expectations. The departure of key players has created some holes, but the influx of new talent provides optimism that LSU will continue to be a championship contender in the SEC and nationally.