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LSU Football Adding Impactful Transfers to Surround Garrett Nussmeier on Offense
As LSU football looks toward the 2025 season, one of the most critical pieces to the puzzle is quarterback Garrett Nussmeier. After the departure of former star quarterback Jayden Daniels, Nussmeier is expected to take the reins as the starting quarterback for the Tigers. The young signal-caller has demonstrated flashes of brilliance in his limited action, but for LSU to remain a national contender in the ultra-competitive SEC, it will need to surround Nussmeier with a cast of talented players who can help him thrive. Enter the transfer portal, which has become an indispensable tool for teams like LSU to address key needs quickly and efficiently.
While recruiting remains a cornerstone of any program’s strategy, the transfer portal has revolutionized college football, allowing teams to instantly address positions of need with proven players. LSU is poised to leverage the portal to bring in impactful transfers who can provide immediate help to Nussmeier as he prepares for the 2025 season. In this article, we will explore the positions where LSU is likely to focus its efforts in the transfer portal and identify potential players who could make a difference for the Tigers on offense. Whether it’s at wide receiver, running back, or along the offensive line, LSU is determined to give Nussmeier all the tools he needs to succeed.
1. Wide Receiver: Adding Playmakers to the Passing Game
One of the most pressing areas for LSU to address is wide receiver. While Malik Nabers is one of the top wideouts in the country and will likely remain the primary target in the passing game, LSU will need additional depth and talent at the position to maximize Nussmeier’s potential. With the departure of Kayshon Boutte, one of the program’s most dynamic receivers in recent years, the Tigers have a void to fill in their wide receiver corps.
The Need for Playmakers
While Nabers has established himself as a go-to option, LSU needs more playmakers on the outside to ensure its offense remains explosive and unpredictable. A quarterback like Nussmeier, who is known for his ability to push the ball downfield, will benefit greatly from having multiple threats at wide receiver. Nussmeier’s strong arm and playmaking ability will allow him to stretch the field, but to do so effectively, he’ll need multiple reliable targets who can win one-on-one matchups and make plays in key situations.
In addition to Nabers, LSU has Jack Bech, who has shown promise, and Kyren Lacy, who has potential as a deep threat. However, adding another proven playmaker via the transfer portal could be just what the Tigers need to take their passing attack to the next level. Whether it’s a speedster capable of taking the top off the defense or a big-bodied receiver who can win contested catches, LSU’s offense would benefit from a few more capable wideouts.
Transfer Portal Targets
There are a few names in the transfer portal that could help LSU surround Nussmeier with the playmakers he needs. LSU has historically been a destination for talented wide receivers, and in 2025, the Tigers could target several notable names. For example, players like Dorian Singer from Arizona or Trey Knox from Arkansas could immediately contribute to the LSU offense. Singer, who has proven himself as a reliable and explosive receiver in the Pac-12, could add the deep-threat ability that Nussmeier will need to take advantage of his strong arm. Knox, known for his physicality and ability to create mismatches against smaller cornerbacks, could provide a reliable option in the red zone and a strong presence across the middle of the field.
By adding a couple of these players, LSU could deepen its receiving corps and provide Nussmeier with more reliable options, allowing the offense to be more balanced and less reliant on one player. A versatile receiving corps with multiple players capable of making big plays will allow LSU to open up the offense and keep opposing defenses guessing.
2. Running Back: Establishing a Consistent Ground Game
A crucial component of any offense is the ability to run the ball effectively. For LSU to maximize Nussmeier’s potential, the Tigers must have a strong and consistent running game that keeps defenses honest and creates balance on offense. While Noah Cain and John Emery Jr. have shown flashes of potential, LSU is still searching for the type of back that can consistently move the chains and break big plays.
The Need for a Dynamic Running Back
The best offenses are those that can both run and pass the ball effectively. A dynamic running back can help relieve some of the pressure on the quarterback, ensuring that defenses can’t solely focus on defending the passing game. LSU is known for producing top-tier running backs, and as Nussmeier steps into the starting role, he will benefit from a reliable and explosive option in the backfield.
Although Cain and Emery have provided some solid contributions, LSU’s offense would be elevated with the addition of an elite running back who can be a workhorse in both the running and passing games. A true dual-threat back who can catch passes out of the backfield and pick up key yards on the ground would complement Nussmeier’s skill set perfectly.
Transfer Portal Targets
One player LSU may look to target in the transfer portal is Trey Benson, the former Oregon running back who has emerged as one of the top options on the market. Benson is an explosive athlete with the ability to hit the home run on any given play. His combination of size and speed would provide LSU with the type of back that can both take pressure off Nussmeier and contribute significantly to the offense. Benson’s ability to contribute in the passing game is also a key asset, as Nussmeier will need a reliable checkdown option in the backfield.
Another potential target is Jahmyr Gibbs from Alabama, who is known for his quickness and pass-catching ability. Gibbs could provide LSU with a multi-dimensional back who could line up in the backfield or as a slot receiver, giving the Tigers the flexibility to use him in various formations and situations.
With Nussmeier needing weapons both in the passing game and in the backfield, a transfer running back could provide the perfect balance and ensure LSU’s offense is not one-dimensional.
3. Offensive Line: Ensuring Protection for Nussmeier
While the skill positions garner a lot of attention, one of the most critical areas for LSU’s offense is the offensive line. To maximize Nussmeier’s potential, the Tigers must give him ample time to survey the field, go through his progressions, and execute the offense. LSU has had its share of talent on the offensive line, but with some key departures, particularly Anthony Bradford and Will Campbell, the Tigers will need to reload and add depth to their offensive line for 2025.
The Need for Protection and Depth
The offensive line has been a key area of focus for LSU in recent years. The Tigers have been successful in developing top-tier offensive linemen who can protect the quarterback and create running lanes. However, with a new quarterback in Nussmeier, the need for consistent protection will be amplified. LSU’s ability to run the ball and give Nussmeier enough time to throw the ball will largely depend on how well the offensive line performs.
While Lance Hurd, Emery Jones, and other returning players provide a solid foundation, LSU may look to the transfer portal to add immediate experience and depth to its offensive line. Given the importance of having a cohesive and experienced line, Brian Kelly will likely prioritize adding a few impact transfers who can contribute right away and help solidify the trenches.
Transfer Portal Targets
One name to watch is Ethan White from Florida, who could provide the experience and leadership LSU needs on the offensive line. White has been a standout at Florida and could step in as a starter at either guard or tackle, giving Nussmeier added protection and stability up front. Another potential target is Tyler Steen from Alabama, who has proven himself at the SEC level and could bring much-needed depth to LSU’s line.
By adding one or two players from the transfer portal, LSU can ensure that Nussmeier has a solid offensive line to protect him, which is crucial for any quarterback’s success. A strong offensive line allows a quarterback to be comfortable in the pocket, survey the field, and execute the offense at a high level.
Conclusion: A Bright Future for Nussmeier and LSU Football
As Brian Kelly and LSU football look toward the 2025 season, surrounding Garrett Nussmeier with talent is essential to their success. The transfer portal presents a unique opportunity for the Tigers to fill key positions and provide Nussmeier with the weapons he needs to succeed. Whether it’s adding playmakers at wide receiver, a dynamic running back, or experienced offensive linemen, LSU’s use of the transfer portal will be critical in maximizing the potential of its offense.
With Nussmeier’s skill set and the addition of key transfers, LSU has the chance to field one of the most potent offenses in the SEC. As the Tigers continue to build a championship-caliber team, the transfer portal will be a valuable tool in helping LSU maintain its place among the top programs in college football. With Brian Kelly’s leadership and strategic use of transfers, LSU’s offense will be poised to thrive in 2025 and beyond.
