Two former cornerbacks for LSU football reveal their transfer portal destinations.
Two Former Cornerbacks for LSU Football Reveal Their Transfer Portal Destinations
The LSU Tigers football program has long been a powerhouse in college football, known for producing elite talent across various positions. The cornerback position has been a particular strength, with the program consistently developing high-level players who eventually transition to successful careers in the NFL. However, like all major programs, LSU is not immune to the fluid nature of college football, particularly when it comes to the transfer portal.
In recent months, two prominent former cornerbacks from the LSU football team have made headlines after announcing their decisions to transfer. These transfers are a reminder of the ever-evolving landscape of college football, where player movement is becoming increasingly common, often for a variety of personal, academic, or football-related reasons. As LSU looks to rebuild and retool its roster, the transfer portal is an essential part of that process, both in terms of adding new talent and losing some to other programs.
This article takes a closer look at the two former LSU cornerbacks who have decided to enter the transfer portal, where they are headed, and what their departures mean for LSU’s program. We will also discuss the broader implications of the transfer portal for college football, how LSU plans to move forward with its roster, and how these two cornerbacks could fare at their new destinations.
The Transfer Portal Phenomenon
Before we dive into the specifics of the cornerbacks’ transfers, it’s important to understand the context in which these moves are taking place. The transfer portal has fundamentally changed the way college football operates. Players now have more freedom than ever before to explore other opportunities, and the process has made it easier for them to move between programs without penalty. The NCAA introduced the transfer portal in 2018, allowing athletes to officially express their intent to transfer, which has made it a common avenue for both rising stars and players looking for more playing time.
The impact of the portal has been especially notable in high-profile programs like LSU, where competition for spots is fierce, and the depth of talent is often overwhelming. For some players, the move is simply a matter of seeking more playing time or a better fit within a new system. For others, the transfer portal is a chance to be closer to home or pursue a program with a different style of play that aligns with their skill set.
For LSU, the transfer portal has been both a blessing and a curse. The program has seen several key players enter the portal over the past few seasons, but it has also used the portal to replenish its roster, bringing in talent from other schools. The Tigers have had their fair share of success stories, but as is the case for any program, the departures of talented players—especially at key positions like cornerback—are always notable.
The Cornerbacks Who Left LSU
Cornerback #1: Eli Ricks
Eli Ricks, one of the top cornerbacks in the nation during his time at LSU, was a highly touted recruit when he entered the program as part of the 2020 class. A former five-star recruit, Ricks was expected to be a cornerstone of LSU’s defense for years to come. He lived up to that billing early in his career, making an immediate impact as a freshman and quickly establishing himself as one of the most talented cornerbacks in college football.
During his first season in Baton Rouge, Ricks recorded four interceptions and was widely regarded as one of the top cornerbacks in the SEC. His combination of size, speed, and ball skills made him a natural at the position, and he seemed poised for an even more successful sophomore season. However, a combination of injuries and inconsistency during the 2021 season led to Ricks’ role with the team becoming more fluid. Despite the setbacks, his talent remained undeniable, and he was still regarded as one of the most promising cornerbacks in college football.
In 2022, Ricks made the decision to enter the transfer portal, looking for a fresh start. LSU fans were understandably disappointed to lose a player of his caliber, but the decision was understandable considering his search for stability and more playing time.
Ricks’ Transfer Destination: Alabama
In a surprising turn of events, Eli Ricks decided to transfer to Alabama, LSU’s biggest rival in the SEC West. The decision to join Nick Saban’s defensive system in Tuscaloosa immediately raised eyebrows, given the intense rivalry between LSU and Alabama. But for Ricks, Alabama provided an opportunity to continue his development in a program with a history of producing elite NFL cornerbacks.
At Alabama, Ricks will have the chance to work under one of the greatest defensive minds in college football, Nick Saban, who is known for his ability to develop defensive backs and turn them into professional-caliber players. The decision to transfer to Alabama, though controversial, offers Ricks the platform to play at a high level and potentially elevate his draft stock.
The move also makes sense for Ricks from a football standpoint. With Alabama’s emphasis on defense, particularly their ability to develop defensive backs, Ricks is poised to benefit from working with a coaching staff that has produced some of the best cornerbacks in the NFL, such as Patrick Surtain II, Marlon Humphrey, and Trevon Diggs.
For LSU, the loss of Ricks is undoubtedly a blow, especially given his talent and potential. However, the Tigers still have a strong roster and plenty of talent at cornerback, and LSU fans will be watching closely to see how Ricks performs at his new school.
Cornerback #2: Dwight McGlothern
Dwight McGlothern was another promising cornerback for LSU who entered the transfer portal following the 2022 season. McGlothern, a transfer from the University of Illinois, had been a key contributor to LSU’s secondary during his time in Baton Rouge. He played in every game during the 2021 season and was a steady presence in the Tigers’ defensive backfield.
Though McGlothern’s stats didn’t necessarily jump off the page, his role was vital in LSU’s defense, and he quickly became a reliable option in coverage. Known for his size and physicality, McGlothern was an important piece in LSU’s defensive scheme, often tasked with covering some of the SEC’s top wide receivers. His versatility allowed him to excel in man-to-man coverage as well as zone schemes, making him an asset to the Tigers’ defense.
Despite his solid play, McGlothern’s decision to enter the transfer portal came as a bit of a surprise to some. However, the move may have been driven by a desire for a new opportunity in a more prominent role or in a system that better suited his strengths.
McGlothern’s Transfer Destination: Auburn
McGlothern ultimately decided to transfer to Auburn, another SEC school with a strong defensive tradition. The move to Auburn allows McGlothern to continue playing in the competitive SEC while seeking a new environment and the chance to grow in a different defensive system. Auburn, under head coach Hugh Freeze, is looking to rebuild its program, and McGlothern’s experience and skill set will be a valuable asset for the Tigers.
At Auburn, McGlothern is expected to play a pivotal role in the secondary and should have ample opportunities to make an impact. The Tigers’ defense has been known for its physicality and aggressiveness, traits that align well with McGlothern’s playing style. This transfer could be just what McGlothern needs to elevate his game and further develop his skills as he prepares for a potential NFL career.
For LSU, McGlothern’s departure is another challenge for their already depleted secondary. With several key players leaving via the transfer portal, the Tigers will need to rely on younger players and incoming recruits to fill the void. However, LSU’s reputation for developing talent and its strong recruiting efforts mean the program will likely reload and continue to be a contender in the SEC.
Implications for LSU and the Transfer Portal
The departures of both Eli Ricks and Dwight McGlothern represent significant losses for the LSU Tigers, particularly in a secondary that is traditionally one of the team’s strengths. Losing two experienced cornerbacks leaves a hole in the defensive backfield, but LSU’s coaching staff is known for its ability to develop talent, and the Tigers are expected to bring in new players to fill these gaps.
The transfer portal will be a key part of LSU’s strategy to rebuild its secondary. LSU has historically been a strong destination for defensive backs, and the Tigers are sure to focus on bringing in high-level players to replace Ricks and McGlothern. Additionally, the program will look to young players already on the roster to step up and contribute, whether through spring practices or in the upcoming season.
For LSU, the loss of these players underscores the changing dynamics of college football, where the transfer portal plays a larger role in shaping rosters and determining the fate of programs. The key to success in this new landscape is the ability to recruit well, develop players, and stay ahead of the curve in terms of roster management.
