Three football transfers from LSU are still looking for a new school.
Three Football Transfers from LSU Still Looking for a New School
The college football transfer portal has become a key component of roster-building in recent years. It provides players with the opportunity to seek better opportunities and, in some cases, a fresh start with a different program. For LSU, a school that has been at the center of college football’s elite for years, there have been several players who have entered the transfer portal, looking for a new place to continue their football careers.
As LSU’s football program evolves under head coach Brian Kelly, the need to maintain a strong, competitive roster remains crucial. For a handful of Tigers players, the transfer portal has served as a means to seek more playing time, change their roles, or take their talents to another school in search of new opportunities.
In this article, we will focus on three players from the LSU football team who are still looking for their new homes. These players, all of whom were once key members of LSU’s roster, are now navigating the transfer portal, hoping to find a program that can offer them the best chance at success. We will dive into the reasons behind their decisions to transfer, potential destinations, and how their departures could impact LSU’s future.
1. Quarterback Walker Howard
One of the most notable names among LSU’s recent transfers is Walker Howard, a quarterback who had been heralded as one of the top young quarterbacks in the nation. A former five-star recruit from St. Thomas More High School in Lafayette, Louisiana, Howard was considered the future of LSU football after his high school success.
However, with Garrett Nussmeier and Jayden Daniels both ahead of him on the depth chart, Howard found his playing time limited during the 2023 and 2024 seasons. While Howard showed flashes of his potential during practices and in limited appearances, the presence of more experienced quarterbacks led to him deciding to enter the transfer portal and seek a fresh start elsewhere.
Why He Left
For Howard, the decision to transfer was likely a matter of getting more playing time and the opportunity to prove himself as a starting quarterback. Despite his natural talent, the depth at quarterback at LSU was simply too strong for him to secure the starting job in the near future. The addition of Jayden Daniels had solidified the position for the time being, and Nussmeier’s promise as a backup with upside created further competition.
Where Could He Go?
Howard’s talent is undeniable, and many programs around the country will be vying for his services. As a former five-star recruit, he is a highly sought-after player, and several schools will likely have interest in bringing him on as their starting quarterback. Potential destinations for Howard could include schools in need of a starting quarterback like Miami, Ole Miss, or Virginia Tech—programs looking for a player who has the potential to lead them to success in the coming seasons.
The Miami Hurricanes, in particular, could be a solid fit for Howard. With the Hurricanes looking to stabilize their quarterback position and move forward with a young, talented player, Howard’s skill set would provide the program with a bright future. Similarly, Virginia Tech could be an option, as the Hokies have been searching for a quarterback to lead them to a competitive level in the ACC.
Wherever Howard ends up, his future as a starting quarterback is bright, and his time at LSU will likely be remembered as a stepping stone in his journey toward becoming a star.
2. Running Back Armoni Goodwin
Armoni Goodwin, a talented running back who spent several seasons with LSU, is another player still looking for a new school after entering the transfer portal. Goodwin was expected to be a key piece in LSU’s running game, offering a mix of power and speed that could make him a dynamic threat. However, his time at LSU was marred by injuries and the emergence of other running backs, which limited his opportunities on the field.
Why He Left
Goodwin’s departure from LSU is likely a result of a combination of factors. One significant issue was the rise of other running backs, such as John Emery Jr., Noah Cain, and Josh Williams, who saw more significant playing time in 2024. With the competition growing more intense at the running back position, Goodwin likely realized that his chances for consistent playing time at LSU were dwindling.
Injuries also played a role in his decision. Goodwin has struggled with injuries throughout his college career, and at times, his inability to stay healthy made it difficult for him to earn a prominent role in LSU’s offense. Given these circumstances, transferring to a new program that could offer him a chance to be a featured back and stay healthy seemed like the best option for his future.
Where Could He Go?
Goodwin’s combination of speed, vision, and power would make him an appealing prospect for several programs looking to add depth to their backfield. Schools that are in need of an experienced running back, especially one who can step in immediately as a key contributor, may be interested in Goodwin’s services.
Mississippi State, under head coach Zach Arnett, could be an ideal destination for Goodwin. The Bulldogs have a history of relying on strong running backs, and Goodwin could provide an immediate boost to their rushing attack. Another possibility is Indiana, which has been building a more competitive program in the Big Ten and could benefit from Goodwin’s skills as a versatile running back.
Lastly, Northwestern could be a landing spot. With the Wildcats seeking a playmaking back to enhance their offense, Goodwin could thrive in their system and help lead them to more success on the ground.
3. Wide Receiver Chris Hilton Jr.
Another notable LSU player who has entered the transfer portal is Chris Hilton Jr., a wide receiver who has shown flashes of great potential during his time at LSU but has struggled to find a consistent role in the offense. Hilton, a former four-star recruit, came to LSU with high expectations and the promise of becoming a major contributor. However, with LSU’s deep receiving corps and the rise of other talented receivers, Hilton has not been able to secure a starting position.
Why He Left
Hilton’s decision to transfer likely stems from his desire for more playing time and the opportunity to have a larger role in an offense. LSU boasts a number of top-tier receivers, such as Kayshon Boutte and Malik Nabers, making it difficult for Hilton to break through and become a primary target in the passing game. Despite his speed and ability to make plays, Hilton was often relegated to a backup role or used in limited situations, which limited his ability to make an impact.
As a result, Hilton likely sought out the transfer portal in the hopes of finding a program where he could be a featured receiver and gain more attention from scouts and NFL prospects.
Where Could He Go?
Hilton’s skill set is highly regarded, and several programs will likely be interested in adding him as a top receiver. Given his talent, Hilton could fit into a variety of offensive systems that rely on speed and big-play ability.
TCU could be an excellent fit for Hilton. The Horned Frogs have developed a high-powered offense that is predicated on explosive plays, and Hilton could slot in perfectly as a deep threat. Another possible destination is Arizona State, which has been rebuilding under new head coach Kenny Dillingham. The Sun Devils could use a dynamic receiver to take their offense to the next level, and Hilton’s deep-threat ability would complement their system well.
Hilton could also find success in the Big 12, with schools like Kansas State and Baylor potentially showing interest in his services. Both programs could use a wide receiver who can make big plays and stretch the defense.
Impact on LSU
While the loss of these three players—Walker Howard, Armoni Goodwin, and Chris Hilton Jr.—may seem like a blow to LSU’s depth and talent, the program has shown resilience in managing the transfer portal and adapting to new opportunities. LSU’s coaching staff, led by Brian Kelly, has recruited well and has the ability to continue developing new talent while addressing needs through the transfer portal.
The departure of these players opens up more room for younger talent and new recruits to step up and contribute. Additionally, LSU’s already strong roster in key areas, including quarterback, running back, and wide receiver, means that while these departures will certainly be felt, they will not derail the program’s future success.
