The LSU Football Offseason Needs: Which Direction Will the Tigers Go In?

The LSU Tigers football program enters the offseason with a mixture of optimism and anticipation. Under head coach Brian Kelly, LSU has shown significant improvement in his second year at the helm, finishing 2023 with a strong record and the promise of even greater success moving forward. Yet, the offseason always presents a pivotal opportunity for any program to assess its strengths, weaknesses, and needs. For LSU, this offseason holds particular importance as they continue to rebuild and reload with the goal of competing for the SEC title and, ultimately, a national championship.

While LSU has solidified itself as one of the most talented programs in college football, there are key areas where improvements must be made in order to elevate the team to the next level. The Tigers will look to shore up weaknesses in personnel, make strategic moves through recruiting and the transfer portal, and address depth concerns across their roster. With a loaded roster and a bright future, the question remains: which direction will LSU go in the offseason?

1. Addressing Defensive Line Depth and Pass Rush

One of LSU’s biggest needs entering the offseason is strengthening the defensive line. While LSU has a history of producing elite defensive linemen who have gone on to successful careers in the NFL, the Tigers’ defensive front did not fully meet expectations in 2023. The defensive line is a cornerstone of any defense, particularly in the SEC, where dominating in the trenches is critical to controlling the game. The loss of key players to the NFL draft, combined with some inconsistencies in play, has highlighted a need for more depth and more talent along the defensive line.

The Direction LSU Will Likely Go:

• Recruiting: To fill the void left by key players like Jaquelin Roy (who declared for the NFL Draft), LSU will need to rely on a strong recruiting class to bolster its defensive line. The Tigers have historically done well in securing top talent on the defensive line, and they will need to continue this trend to keep pace with SEC powerhouses like Alabama, Georgia, and others.
  • LSU’s recruiting strategy will likely focus on adding both interior and edge rushers. They will seek out players who can generate pressure on opposing quarterbacks while also plugging running lanes. A combination of elite pass rushers and versatile linemen who can stop the run will help LSU build a more balanced and formidable defensive front.
• Transfer Portal: LSU has already shown its ability to add key pieces through the transfer portal, and this offseason should be no different. Given the scarcity of elite defensive line talent in the transfer market, the Tigers could target players who bring experience and can contribute immediately. A transfer defensive lineman could help bolster depth and offer an instant impact, particularly if the player possesses the ability to both disrupt passing plays and dominate in run defense.
• Development of Young Players: In addition to bringing in new talent, LSU will look to continue developing younger players already on the roster. The continued growth of players like Maason Smith, who is expected to play a central role in the Tigers’ defensive line in 2024, will be crucial. For LSU to compete at a high level, the defensive line needs to be more consistent in applying pressure and controlling the line of scrimmage.

2. Secondary Upgrades: Safety and Cornerback Depth

LSU’s secondary, while showing promise, remains one of the most important areas to address in the offseason. Despite the presence of standout players like Mekhi Garner, the Tigers struggled at times to prevent explosive plays through the air, especially against elite SEC quarterbacks. The cornerback and safety positions need to be addressed both in terms of quality and depth.

The Direction LSU Will Likely Go:

• Recruiting: The Tigers will look to sign some elite defensive backs, especially safeties and cornerbacks. With the departures of key seniors and potential early NFL draft entries, recruiting at these positions is imperative. LSU will likely target a mix of immediate contributors and long-term developmental players, focusing on high school recruits who have the potential to become top-tier SEC defenders.
• Transfer Portal: The transfer portal is likely to be an area where LSU adds depth and experience. As the portal has proven to be a key avenue for LSU to quickly replenish talent, expect them to target safeties and cornerbacks who can step in and contribute from day one. With several schools having already seen their players declare for the portal, LSU will likely look for defensive backs who can lock down receivers, provide leadership, and help shore up the secondary’s ability to cover top-flight SEC offenses.
  • One area where LSU might find value in the portal is at the safety position. With LSU’s defense needing more playmakers and ball-hawking safeties, bringing in an experienced player who can both cover and support the run would elevate the back end of their defense.
• Coaching and Player Development: While talent acquisition is crucial, LSU will also rely on its coaching staff to help improve the play of the returning players. The Tigers will need their defensive backs to develop better coverage techniques and become more consistent in their ability to break up passes. Coaches will focus on improving the team’s defensive communication, particularly in zone coverage situations, and making sure that defenders are able to read and react quickly to opposing offenses.

3. Offensive Line: Stability and Depth

LSU’s offense made great strides under offensive coordinator Mike Denbrock in 2023, especially with quarterback Jayden Daniels leading the charge. However, the offensive line still remains an area that requires consistent attention, both in terms of depth and talent. While LSU has talented players up front, the group was not always able to dominate as expected, particularly in run blocking. To compete at the highest level, LSU must ensure that their offensive line provides Jayden Daniels and the running backs with the time and space they need to execute efficiently.

The Direction LSU Will Likely Go:

• Recruiting: LSU will likely prioritize offensive line recruiting, targeting a mix of tackles, guards, and centers who can add depth and eventually push for starting spots. Recruiting high-caliber offensive linemen is always a priority for LSU, especially considering the physicality required to compete in the SEC. Building a cohesive unit that can protect the quarterback and create running lanes for the backs will be a critical focus.
  • LSU could look to target a top-tier recruit who could immediately make an impact as a freshman, but also focus on adding depth to the program by bringing in versatile offensive linemen who could be developed into future starters.
• Transfer Portal: As with many programs, the transfer portal presents an opportunity for LSU to find experienced offensive linemen who can contribute right away. Given the importance of keeping a quarterback like Jayden Daniels upright, LSU could look to bring in experienced tackles or guards who have a proven track record of blocking in elite conferences.
• Development and Scheme Adjustments: In addition to adding new talent, the offensive line will need to continue developing under the guidance of offensive line coach Brad Davis. LSU will need to refine its blocking schemes and focus on improving pass protection, especially against formidable SEC defensive fronts. The continued development of key players like Will Campbell and Emery Jones will be essential as they grow into future leaders of the line.

4. Wide Receiver Position: Playmaking and Depth

Despite having some standout performances from wide receivers like Malik Nabers and Kyren Lacy in 2023, LSU will likely look to improve its receiving corps in order to give Jayden Daniels more options in the passing game. While the team has playmaking ability, adding another dynamic receiver could take their passing game to the next level.

The Direction LSU Will Likely Go:

• Recruiting: LSU is known for signing elite wide receivers, and this year, they’ll look to continue that trend. Bringing in another top-tier receiver or two could give Daniels more weapons and elevate the offense as a whole. LSU is one of the top destinations for elite wide receiver talent, and they will likely focus on landing players who can contribute early and provide an immediate boost to the offense.
• Transfer Portal: LSU could also target wide receivers in the portal, especially those with experience in high-level competition. The Tigers could use a transfer receiver who brings a unique skill set—such as speed, size, or route-running ability—to help round out their receiving corps and provide another option for Daniels in the passing game.
• Development of Young Talent: LSU will need to continue developing young players like Brian Thomas Jr., who has flashed potential in his early career. The emergence of younger receivers will be critical, and if LSU can develop another breakout star, their offense could become even more potent.

5. Quarterback Position: Continuity and Depth

While LSU is in a good position at quarterback with Jayden Daniels returning for another year, ensuring depth and continuity at the position will be key moving forward. The Tigers will need to ensure they have a strong backup quarterback in case of injury, as well as continue to develop Daniels’ game to the highest level.

The Direction LSU Will Likely Go:

• Depth at Quarterback: While Daniels is the clear starter, LSU could look for a solid backup quarterback in the transfer portal or through recruiting. Developing a reliable backup is important, especially given the physical nature of college football and the unpredictable nature of injuries.
• Focus on Development: LSU will also focus on continuing to develop Daniels as the leader of their offense. Improving his consistency in the passing game and helping him become a more dynamic threat will be crucial to LSU’s success. The coaching staff will also work on improving his chemistry with the receiving corps.

Conclusion

LSU enters the offseason in a strong position, but there are still clear needs that must be addressed in order for the Tigers to truly compete for SEC and national championships. By focusing on improving the defensive line, secondary, offensive line, wide receiver corps, and ensuring quarterback depth, LSU can take the next step in its ascent under Brian Kelly. The Tigers will likely make strategic moves in both recruiting and the transfer portal, aiming to balance their roster with experience and youthful talent. Ultimately, LSU’s ability to identify and address these needs in the offseason will determine their trajectory for the 2024 season and beyond.