The Impact: Brian Kelly, LSU Football Sign Double-Digit Immediate Impact Transfers

Since taking over as LSU’s head football coach in 2022, Brian Kelly has quickly re-established the program as one of the premier football programs in the Southeastern Conference (SEC). A major component of Kelly’s success has been his ability to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of college football, particularly through the transfer portal. LSU’s 2024 offseason has been a testament to Kelly’s adaptability, as the Tigers signed double-digit immediate impact transfers, many of whom are expected to contribute immediately and help bolster the team’s championship aspirations.

With the advent of the transfer portal, Kelly’s approach to roster construction has been a balancing act: developing talent within the program while also enhancing it through strategic acquisitions of players who can make an immediate impact. LSU has become one of the key players in the transfer portal era, and the decisions made this offseason reflect Kelly’s long-term vision for the program.

In this article, we will explore how Brian Kelly and LSU have utilized the transfer portal to reshape their roster. We will examine the key signings, the strategic importance of these additions, and how they impact LSU’s aspirations both for the 2024 season and the future.

1. The Transfer Portal’s Growing Influence on College Football

The transfer portal has radically transformed the way college football teams build their rosters. Players can now enter the portal and transfer without facing the same restrictions as before, leading to an influx of talent that teams can tap into to fill gaps or bolster their depth. For LSU, this shift has allowed Kelly to address immediate needs and add depth to key positions, all while maintaining a focus on the long-term development of his recruits.

The portal’s appeal is particularly strong for teams like LSU that are competing for national championships and SEC titles. The quick turnaround that portal acquisitions allow can be the difference between a good season and a championship-caliber one. Kelly, recognizing the value of these opportunities, has been proactive in pursuing talent that can contribute right away. The result has been a series of high-profile transfers that complement LSU’s existing talent and elevate the Tigers’ chances of success.

2. Key Immediate Impact Transfers

Here are some of the most notable transfers who have joined LSU for the 2024 season, and why they are expected to make an immediate impact on the program.

1. Jaden Rashada (QB, Arizona) One of the most high-profile transfers LSU secured in 2024 was quarterback Jaden Rashada from the University of Arizona. Rashada, a highly-rated prospect out of high school, brings a combination of strong arm talent, mobility, and playmaking ability to LSU’s quarterback room. While the Tigers’ starting quarterback position is likely to be locked up by a returning player, Rashada provides LSU with an insurance policy and potential future star at the most important position in football.

   Rashada’s arrival is significant because it gives LSU not only depth at quarterback but also a potential game-changer in the coming years. His ability to immediately compete for playing time and contribute in specific packages or even in the event of injury provides flexibility and security for LSU’s offense.

2. Trey Benson (RB, Oregon) LSU’s backfield was one of the best in the SEC in 2023, but the addition of running back Trey Benson from Oregon significantly strengthens the Tigers’ ground game. Benson, known for his powerful running style and ability to break tackles, is expected to form a dynamic duo with the existing LSU running backs, further solidifying the team’s ability to control the line of scrimmage and maintain a balanced offensive attack.

   Benson’s immediate impact will likely be felt in short-yardage situations, where his size and toughness can wear down defenses. Additionally, his ability to catch passes out of the backfield adds another dimension to the offense, making LSU even more dangerous on offense.

3. Samson Okunlola (OL, Alabama) Offensive line play is always a key factor in a team’s success, and LSU’s 2024 roster received a major boost with the addition of offensive lineman Samson Okunlola from Alabama. Okunlola, known for his size, strength, and technique, is expected to help anchor LSU’s line and provide much-needed depth to the trenches.

   The offensive line is one area where LSU was looking to improve after losing a few key players to graduation and the NFL draft. Okunlola’s arrival gives LSU a powerful force on the line, and he is expected to contribute immediately in both the running game and pass protection, making him a vital piece of the puzzle as the Tigers look to build on their success in 2024.

4. Tony Grimes (CB, North Carolina) The cornerback position has been an area of concern for LSU in recent seasons, particularly in pass defense. However, the addition of cornerback Tony Grimes from North Carolina is a game-changer for LSU’s secondary. Grimes is a physically gifted corner with excellent coverage skills and ball awareness, making him an ideal fit for LSU’s defensive system.

   With the departures of several key players from LSU’s defense, Grimes will step into a starting role immediately. His ability to lock down receivers and provide leadership in the secondary will play a crucial role in LSU’s ability to defend against some of the most potent passing offenses in the SEC.

5. Chris Marshall (WR, Texas A&M) LSU’s receiving corps is one of the most talented in the nation, but the addition of wide receiver Chris Marshall from Texas A&M adds another layer of depth and talent to the group. Marshall’s combination of size, speed, and route-running ability makes him a perfect fit for LSU’s offensive scheme. As a physical presence on the outside, Marshall will be a matchup nightmare for opposing defensive backs.

   Marshall’s ability to stretch the field and make contested catches down the sideline adds another dimension to LSU’s passing game. With several other talented wide receivers on the roster, Marshall will give LSU the ability to be even more explosive on offense and force opposing defenses to account for multiple playmakers.

6. Ben Davis (LB, Alabama) A standout linebacker from Alabama, Ben Davis brings a wealth of experience to LSU’s defense. Davis is a versatile player who can contribute both as an inside linebacker and on the edge, providing LSU with flexibility and depth at the linebacker position. His physicality and leadership will be crucial for LSU’s defense, particularly as the Tigers look to improve in pass defense and run-stopping.

   Davis will be counted on to make an immediate impact as a leader on the field. His experience in the SEC will help him adjust quickly to LSU’s defensive system and make an immediate difference in both run support and pass coverage.

7. Jahmyr Gibbs (RB, Georgia Tech) Another running back addition, Jahmyr Gibbs from Georgia Tech, further bolsters LSU’s already impressive backfield. Gibbs is a shifty, fast back known for his ability to make defenders miss and his explosiveness in the open field. His style complements the more bruising style of Trey Benson, and together, they will give LSU one of the most dynamic backfields in the country.

   Gibbs’ ability to contribute as both a rusher and a receiver makes him a versatile weapon for LSU’s offense, providing more options for offensive coordinator Mike Denbrock. With LSU looking to maintain a balanced attack, Gibbs will be a key contributor who can change the game with one play.

3. The Strategic Importance of These Transfers

The 2024 LSU football team will likely be one of the most complete and well-rounded teams in the country, and the addition of these key transfer players only enhances that reality. Each of these players brings a specific skill set to LSU, filling gaps and strengthening positions that will be critical to the team’s success in the SEC and on the national stage.

Brian Kelly’s strategic use of the transfer portal has allowed LSU to immediately address areas of need without having to rely solely on the traditional high school recruiting pipeline. This approach is essential in today’s college football environment, where players can come and go much more freely. By signing these double-digit impact transfers, Kelly is ensuring that LSU remains a formidable force in the SEC and gives itself the best possible chance to compete for national championships.

Moreover, these additions will allow LSU to rotate players more effectively, keeping key athletes fresh throughout the course of a grueling SEC season. The depth on both sides of the ball is crucial in the modern college football landscape, where injuries, fatigue, and matchups can make or break a season.

4. Looking Ahead: What This Means for LSU’s Future

The signings of these double-digit immediate impact transfers also have long-term implications for LSU football. In addition to boosting the roster for the 2024 season, Kelly is building a program that is not only competitive now but also positioned for sustained success. By combining high-level transfer acquisitions with the development of his own recruits, Kelly is creating a program that can continue to compete at the highest level year after year.

The 2024 season will be a crucial one for LSU, and the additions from the transfer portal will play a pivotal role in shaping the team’s identity and success. With a mix of veteran experience and explosive talent, LSU has the potential to make a run at the SEC title and, ultimately, the College Football Playoff.