Brian Kelly and the LSU Tigers have managed to secure the No. 1 Transfer Portal class in the country, an impressive feat that has breathed new life into the program’s offseason efforts. The Bayou Bengals have now reeled in 14 commitments to bolster their roster for the upcoming season, and with significant changes on the horizon, the reinforcements could prove pivotal in LSU’s pursuit of excellence. After seeing 19 members of the 2024 roster depart Baton Rouge, including several key players, the team is making strong moves to recover and even improve for the 2025 season.
This offseason has undoubtedly been eventful for Kelly and his staff, but the transfers they’ve brought in signal optimism for the future. LSU has added immediate impact players on both sides of the ball. Notable additions include Oklahoma wide receiver Nic Anderson and Florida State edge rusher Patrick Payton, two high-profile players expected to make a substantial difference. With their help, LSU looks well-positioned to not only bounce back but to contend for the top spots in college football next season.
The Transfer Portal Class: Building a Contender
LSU’s prowess in the transfer portal has been unmatched so far this offseason, and the program’s work is far from over. With the final two transfers officially submitting their necessary documents just this past Tuesday, Kelly’s squad is poised to improve in multiple key areas. The Tigers have added strength and depth to both their offensive and defensive units, giving them the resources they need to compete in an increasingly tough SEC.
One of the most important additions comes in the form of offensive lineman Josh Thompson, who joined LSU after transferring from Northwestern. Thompson, a 6-foot-5, 301-pound force on the offensive line, was the No. 1 uncommitted interior offensive lineman in the NCAA Transfer Portal at the time of his commitment. Choosing LSU over Tennessee, Thompson’s decision has been seen as a major win for Kelly’s program. With LSU set to lose four starters on the offensive line—Will Campbell, Emery Jones, Garrett Dellinger, and Miles Frazier—Thompson’s arrival helps offset the losses and fortify the Tigers’ offensive front.
The addition of Thompson becomes even more significant given LSU’s offensive line situation. The Tigers were left with gaping holes to fill, especially with several key players departing for the NFL and graduation. As a former standout at Northwestern, Thompson comes highly regarded, having been ranked the No. 2 offensive lineman in the Big Ten by Pro Football Focus (PFF). His experience in one of the nation’s top conferences will immediately help stabilize LSU’s offensive line and make them much more formidable going into the next season.
In addition to Thompson, LSU also signed Virginia Tech’s Braelin Moore, another offensive lineman with considerable potential. Together, these two transfers should provide the depth and skill LSU needs to remain competitive in the trenches. Offensive line play has been a critical factor in LSU’s success in the past, and with the right additions, Kelly is ensuring the Tigers will not miss a beat.
Breaking Down the Impact Players
LSU’s transfer portal class isn’t just about offensive line additions, however. The Tigers have strengthened their roster with players who will make an immediate impact in skill positions, with particular emphasis on defense. One of the most anticipated new signings is edge rusher Patrick Payton, who transferred from Florida State. Payton brings significant talent to LSU’s defense, which struggled at times during the 2024 season.
Edge rusher is one of the most important positions on defense, and Payton’s addition is designed to help shore up LSU’s pass rush. Payton is expected to bring a level of disruption and speed to the defensive front that will elevate the Tigers’ defensive line. LSU’s defense has seen inconsistent performances, particularly when it comes to generating pressure on opposing quarterbacks. Payton’s presence should go a long way in addressing this weakness, as he provides a dynamic pass-rushing threat that could make a real difference on third downs and in high-pressure moments.
Along with Payton, the Tigers’ recruiting efforts have brought in several other talented transfers expected to contribute right away. These players span multiple positions across both the offensive and defensive sides of the ball, adding depth and competition to a roster that’s been reshaped by departures. LSU has targeted both proven talent and high-upside players, and the hope is that they will be able to gel quickly under Kelly’s leadership and provide a much-needed boost to the program’s chances for success in 2025.
The Importance of Roster Retention and Depth
Roster retention, alongside the influx of transfer talent, will be crucial for LSU as it looks to rebound from a disappointing 2024 season. While the Tigers did see significant departures, the additions made in the transfer portal will allow them to retain a competitive edge in a difficult SEC landscape. The mix of proven veterans and emerging talent will allow LSU to fill gaps, develop younger players, and field a squad capable of taking on the SEC’s toughest competition.
It’s clear that Brian Kelly is building a team that is primed for success. The immediate impact players like Thompson and Payton will help fill holes, but they also represent just a piece of a larger puzzle. As LSU continues to solidify its roster, the team will look to build on the positive momentum from the offseason. The Tiger coaching staff has already demonstrated their ability to identify top-tier talent through the transfer portal, and their ability to mesh these new additions with the returning roster will determine how successful the 2025 season ultimately is.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for LSU?
The Tigers’ ability to sign players through the transfer portal this offseason has positioned them to potentially be one of the most improved teams in the country. As the coaching staff works through the final stages of their 2025 preparations, the main focus will be on integrating the new players into the system while maintaining continuity with the returning roster.
Given the key players LSU has brought in, Kelly is creating a depth chart that’s designed to be strong in multiple areas of the field. Whether it’s addressing needs on the offensive line, strengthening the defense with proven edge rushers, or reinforcing the skill positions with high-profile transfers, LSU is certainly building something special. The infusion of talent across the board has created excitement around the program, and fans are eagerly anticipating the upcoming season with renewed hope.
For Brian Kelly, the focus is now on ensuring that these talented new players mesh seamlessly with the veterans who remain. If LSU’s 2025 roster can find success both on the field and through chemistry, it could be a year where the Tigers finally make the leap into the College Football Playoff conversation.
With the No. 1 transfer portal class in the nation, Brian Kelly has given LSU a chance to achieve greatness next season. Time will tell how this class translates on the field, but all signs point toward LSU being one of the teams to watch in 2025. The Bayou Bengals are back in the mix, and their offseason moves have set the stage for a thrilling year ahead.
