The LSU Tigers have been a force in college football for years, and their consistent ability to reload and improve through the transfer portal has kept them at the top of the SEC and national football landscape. As LSU heads into the 2025 season, Coach Brian Kelly and his staff are focused on using the transfer portal as a tool to further elevate the program. The portal has allowed LSU to address immediate needs, add depth, and bring in game-changing talent from across the nation. This article will examine five key transfer portal additions who will likely start for LSU in 2025 and play crucial roles in the Tigers’ success.
1. QB Jaden Rashada (Transfer from Arizona State)
The quarterback position is arguably the most crucial spot on any team, and LSU’s addition of Jaden Rashada from Arizona State has the potential to be a game-changer. The 6’4″ dual-threat quarterback was highly recruited out of high school, and his decision to transfer to LSU offers immediate hope for the Tigers’ offense. With an impressive skill set that blends mobility with a strong arm, Rashada can be the type of dynamic leader LSU needs to compete at the highest level in the SEC.
Why He Will Start:
Rashada has the talent to immediately step in and take the starting quarterback role for LSU. His dual-threat abilities give him a distinct advantage, especially when paired with offensive coordinator Mike Denbrock’s diverse playbook. Denbrock has experience working with quarterbacks who can make plays both in the air and on the ground, making Rashada an ideal fit for LSU’s offensive system.
While LSU has other quarterbacks on the roster, including Garrett Nussmeier, Rashada’s ability to stretch the field with his legs and arm is something that can be a game-changer for the Tigers. Rashada’s performance in the spring and fall camps will likely solidify his spot as the starter for 2025.
2. OLB Harold Perkins Jr. (Transfer from Alabama)
One of the most important areas of focus for LSU in 2025 will be the defensive front, and Harold Perkins Jr. from Alabama is poised to be a key contributor. Perkins is a versatile linebacker who can play on the outside or in the middle, offering LSU defensive coordinator Matt House the flexibility to mix up coverages and blitz packages. He played a pivotal role in Alabama’s defensive success in 2024, accumulating 80 tackles, 14 tackles for loss, and 7 sacks.
Why He Will Start:
Perkins brings a wealth of experience and leadership to LSU’s defense. His ability to rush the passer, cover the field in pass coverage, and stop the run makes him an invaluable asset to the Tigers. While LSU has some talented linebackers, Perkins’ experience at Alabama and his ability to make plays in critical moments will likely earn him a starting role in 2025. LSU’s defense will benefit from Perkins’ ability to be disruptive on all three downs, and his presence will help them match up against the high-powered offenses in the SEC.
With LSU looking to contend for SEC championships and potential playoff spots, Perkins’ leadership and talent at linebacker will be instrumental in achieving those goals.
3. WR Dominic Lovett (Transfer from Georgia)
LSU has a rich tradition of producing top-tier wide receivers, and the addition of Dominic Lovett from Georgia could keep that tradition alive. Lovett, a speedy and reliable receiver, was one of Georgia’s most consistent playmakers in 2024, recording 65 catches for 980 yards and 8 touchdowns. His ability to create separation and make defenders miss after the catch is what sets him apart.
Why He Will Start:
Lovett provides LSU with an immediate playmaking option at wide receiver. He has the speed to take the top off opposing defenses, but more importantly, he is excellent in the short and intermediate routes, which will complement the style of offense LSU is likely to run under Mike Denbrock.
Although LSU has several talented wideouts, including Malik Nabers and Kyren Lacy, Lovett’s ability to create mismatches with his route-running and speed gives him an edge. He could become a favorite target for Jaden Rashada, especially in crucial third-down situations and red zone opportunities.
Adding Lovett gives LSU not only depth at receiver but a true game-breaking talent who can stretch the field and open things up for other weapons in the offense.
4. DT Jalen Carter (Transfer from Georgia)
In the trenches, LSU has consistently produced some of the most dominant defensive lines in college football. The addition of Jalen Carter from Georgia, a dominant defensive tackle who played a significant role in the Bulldogs’ national championship run, should solidify LSU’s defensive front for 2025. Carter is a true force on the interior, capable of collapsing the pocket, stopping the run, and disrupting the rhythm of opposing quarterbacks.
Why He Will Start:
Carter is one of the most highly coveted transfer portal players in the nation for a reason. His experience playing in the SEC and on the national stage with Georgia will pay huge dividends for LSU’s defense. He is a difference-maker who has the size (6’3″, 310 pounds) and quickness to dominate at the defensive tackle position.
LSU’s defensive line has some talent, but Carter’s experience and ability to take over a game will make him an immediate starter. He will be able to contribute to the Tigers’ ability to stop the run, apply pressure on quarterbacks, and make life difficult for opposing offensive lines. His presence alongside other defensive linemen will give LSU one of the most formidable fronts in the conference.
5. CB Denver Harris (Transfer from Texas A&M)
The cornerback position is always vital in the SEC, and LSU’s addition of Denver Harris from Texas A&M brings much-needed depth and talent to their secondary. Harris, a former highly-ranked recruit, showed flashes of brilliance in his time at Texas A&M. He has the size, speed, and technique to be a lock-down corner in the SEC, and LSU will look to tap into his potential.
Why He Will Start:
Harris is an extremely talented cornerback, and LSU’s secondary is one of the few areas that could have used an upgrade in 2025. With LSU’s defensive line generating pressure, a top-tier cornerback like Harris will be key in locking down opposing wide receivers and providing more opportunities for turnovers. LSU’s secondary is traditionally known for producing elite defensive backs, and Harris has the talent to continue that tradition.
While LSU will have some competition at cornerback, Harris’ experience and skills should see him emerge as a starter. His ability to cover the best wide receivers in the SEC will be essential to LSU’s defense, and he will likely be asked to step up in key matchups against some of the conference’s most prolific passing attacks.
Conclusion
As LSU prepares for the 2025 season, the additions through the transfer portal are expected to be a major factor in their quest for another SEC title and a potential playoff berth. Jaden Rashada, Harold Perkins Jr., Dominic Lovett, Jalen Carter, and Denver Harris represent a mix of veteran experience, high-level talent, and key positional upgrades that will make LSU a formidable force.
The Tigers’ ability to identify and acquire transfer portal talent is a testament to the program’s strength and its coaching staff’s vision. These five players, along with the returning talent on LSU’s roster, will give the Tigers a balanced and potent team capable of competing for championships in the SEC and beyond.
LSU football fans should be excited about the future as these players step into starting roles and contribute to another successful season for the Tigers.
