The LSU Tigers football program has long been a powerhouse in college football, producing top-tier talent and competing for national championships. With Brian Kelly now at the helm, LSU is in the midst of a transformation, not only in terms of its culture and philosophy but also in terms of its roster construction. As Kelly and his staff continue to build the Tigers into a perennial contender, there are certain positions of need that will be pivotal for future success.
Here, we break down the positions where LSU is looking to add talent, the current state of those positions, and what Brian Kelly’s vision for these spots could mean for the program’s future.
### Quarterback: The Foundation of the Offense
Perhaps the most crucial position on any football team is quarterback. Brian Kelly has made it clear that his program will be competitive in both recruiting and development at the quarterback position, and that starts with securing a top-tier signal-caller. LSU’s quarterback situation has been in flux in recent years, with varying levels of success. The arrival of Jayden Daniels from Arizona State helped stabilize the position in 2022, but the Tigers still seek long-term stability and elite play under center.
**Current State:** Jayden Daniels, who made a significant impact in 2022, is a dynamic dual-threat quarterback, and with a year of experience under his belt, he has the potential to be even more dangerous moving forward. However, LSU needs to recruit an heir apparent, someone who can lead the offense for years to come.
**Why It’s a Position of Need:** Kelly’s offensive system relies on having a balanced attack that can stretch the field both in the air and on the ground. While Daniels’ ability to run adds a dynamic element, Kelly will want a quarterback who can run the offense with precision from the pocket as well. The Tigers need a future franchise quarterback—whether through recruiting or development—who can take the reins for the long term.
### Wide Receiver: Finding a True Playmaker
While LSU has consistently had elite wide receivers over the years, from Odell Beckham Jr. to Ja’Marr Chase, the position has been relatively unsteady in recent seasons. While players like Kayshon Boutte have had flashes of brilliance, the Tigers are looking for a true No. 1 receiver who can dominate defenses and elevate the overall passing game.
**Current State:** The receiving corps has been a bit hit or miss, with a mix of young and experienced players. Malik Nabers has shown flashes of potential, and several other receivers are making strides, but LSU lacks a clear-cut, dominant pass-catcher that can consistently create mismatches.
**Why It’s a Position of Need:** Brian Kelly is known for utilizing a spread offense that allows wide receivers to make plays in space. For that to happen, LSU needs to recruit a few game-changing wideouts who can create separation, win one-on-one battles, and make explosive plays. A top-tier wide receiver could be the missing piece for LSU’s offense to become elite, as it would allow them to open up the passing game and complement their run game.
### Defensive Line: The Heart of LSU’s Defense
LSU football has a long tradition of having an elite defensive line that can wreak havoc in the trenches. From the likes of Glenn Dorsey to more recent stars like Davon Godchaux, LSU has always prided itself on its ability to dominate up front. Under Brian Kelly, that philosophy remains unchanged, and strengthening the defensive line is a top priority.
**Current State:** LSU’s defensive line has solid pieces in place, such as Maason Smith, who is a highly touted prospect with the ability to disrupt offenses. However, the overall depth and consistency at defensive tackle and defensive end remain areas of concern. The Tigers need to ensure they can rotate bodies and maintain pressure throughout the game.
**Why It’s a Position of Need:** To play championship-level defense, LSU needs a dominant defensive line that can stop the run and pressure the quarterback. Defensive line play is often the key to success in the SEC, and Kelly knows that having a strong defensive front is essential to competing for titles. The Tigers need to add both depth and elite talent at defensive tackle and defensive end to take their defense to the next level.
### Linebacker: The Quarterback of the Defense
While LSU’s defensive line is crucial, the linebacker position is equally important in a 4-3 defense. Linebackers are the quarterbacks of the defense, calling out signals, making adjustments, and ensuring the defense is in the right position to stop the opposing offense. LSU has had great linebacker play in the past, but the program needs to shore up this unit, particularly with the athleticism and versatility that Brian Kelly demands from his linebackers.
**Current State:** The Tigers have some talented players at linebacker, but the depth and overall playmaking ability need improvement. Players like Greg Penn III are showing promise, but Kelly will need to continue recruiting top-tier linebackers who can impact the game in all phases.
**Why It’s a Position of Need:** Linebackers are crucial to LSU’s defensive philosophy, as they must be able to cover the field in both the run and pass game. Brian Kelly’s defense requires linebackers who can read the offense, make adjustments, and contribute in both pass coverage and as tacklers. LSU needs a few high-caliber linebackers who can not only stop the run but also make big plays in coverage and pass rush situations.
### Offensive Line: Protecting the Future
The offensive line is often the most overlooked yet most important position group on a football team. Brian Kelly understands that to have a successful offense, the trenches need to be strong. LSU has experienced offensive line coaches, and while the Tigers have some talented players up front, they need to keep adding to this unit to build a dominant, physical line.
**Current State:** LSU’s offensive line has had its ups and downs in recent years. The Tigers have some solid building blocks, but consistency has been an issue. With the challenges of facing SEC defenses week in and week out, LSU needs to continue building depth and strength along the offensive line.
**Why It’s a Position of Need:** If LSU is going to contend for championships, they need an offensive line that can protect their quarterbacks and open up running lanes for their backs. With Kelly’s emphasis on a balanced attack, the offensive line will be vital in executing both the pass and run game efficiently. Strong, experienced linemen will be crucial to LSU’s success in the SEC and beyond.
### Conclusion
As Brian Kelly continues to shape LSU into a championship-caliber program, these positions of need will play a significant role in the Tigers’ future success. From securing a franchise quarterback to beefing up the defensive line and adding game-changing receivers, LSU must continue to recruit and develop talent at these key positions.
With Kelly’s track record of success, there is little doubt that LSU will continue to be a force in college football. However, to get back to the pinnacle of college football and challenge for national titles, these positions of need must be addressed with urgency and precision. As LSU builds for the future, these are the areas where the Tigers will need to see significant improvements to reach their ultimate goals.