Three Transfers from LSU Football Are Still Looking for a New School

The transfer portal has become one of the most significant forces in college football over the last several years. It provides players with the opportunity to find a new home and continue their careers at a different institution, whether it’s due to a desire for more playing time, a better fit for their skill set, or personal reasons. For some athletes, the process of switching schools is a natural step forward in their football journeys, while for others, it can be a difficult and uncertain decision.

For LSU Football, a powerhouse in the Southeastern Conference (SEC), the transfer portal has seen several players leave the program in search of new opportunities. Among the athletes who have entered the transfer portal, three individuals stand out, as they remain in limbo — searching for a new home where they can continue their college football careers. While their paths are still unfolding, each of these transfers has the talent and potential to make an impact at their next destination.

In this article, we will look closely at the three LSU football transfers still looking for a new school, examining their backgrounds, the reasons they entered the transfer portal, their potential fit at future programs, and what’s next for each of them as they seek a fresh start.

1. The Importance of the Transfer Portal in College Football

Before delving into the specifics of each player, it’s essential to understand the broader context of the transfer portal. The NCAA’s decision to allow players to enter the transfer portal without requiring a penalty or sit-out period has fundamentally changed the landscape of college athletics. Players now have the ability to leave one program and join another, making college football more fluid than ever before.

For programs like LSU, which are known for their recruiting prowess and high level of competition, the transfer portal is both a blessing and a challenge. While LSU can often acquire talented transfers who can make an immediate impact, the flipside is that talented players who may not see enough playing time or feel their potential is fully realized can also seek new opportunities. As of now, three players from LSU football are still seeking new schools after entering the portal. Their decisions will be crucial not only for their careers but also for the future success of the programs they ultimately choose.

2. Player One: Quarterback Walker Howard

One of the most significant departures from LSU in the 2023-2024 offseason is quarterback Walker Howard. Howard, a highly touted recruit out of Lafayette, Louisiana, entered the transfer portal after spending just one season in Baton Rouge as a backup to starting quarterback Jayden Daniels. Despite being a highly rated prospect, Howard found himself buried on the depth chart behind Daniels, who went on to have a standout season for LSU.

During his freshman year, Howard had limited opportunities to see the field. With Daniels firmly established as the starter, there was little room for Howard to gain meaningful playing time. Recognizing that he would likely face another season as a backup, Howard made the decision to enter the transfer portal in search of an opportunity to start elsewhere.

Why He Entered the Transfer Portal

Howard’s decision to leave LSU came down to his desire for more playing time. As a highly ranked recruit, Howard has the talent and potential to be a starting quarterback at the college level, but at LSU, he faced fierce competition for the job. With Daniels returning for another season and LSU bringing in additional quarterback recruits, Howard’s path to becoming a starting quarterback at LSU seemed uncertain. By transferring, Howard was able to find a program that would give him the chance to showcase his skills and develop as a leader.

Potential Destinations for Howard

Given Howard’s background and talent, he is likely to be a highly sought-after quarterback transfer. Several Power Five programs that need a quarterback for the future could look to add Howard to their roster. Schools with recent turnover at the quarterback position or programs in rebuilding phases are prime destinations for Howard, as he brings both the physical tools and football IQ needed to be successful.

One potential landing spot for Howard could be an SEC program that is searching for a quarterback with a higher ceiling. Schools like Auburn, Mississippi State, or Arkansas could be attractive options for Howard. Additionally, programs in other competitive conferences such as the Big 12 or Pac-12 may be interested in bringing in a talented signal-caller like Howard, who is looking for an opportunity to shine as the centerpiece of a new offense.

Ultimately, Howard’s success at his next stop will depend on the coaching staff’s ability to develop him and the team’s offensive system aligning with his strengths.

3. Player Two: Wide Receiver Kyren Lacy

Another player from LSU still looking for a new school is wide receiver Kyren Lacy. Lacy, who joined LSU as a transfer from Louisiana-Lafayette, was expected to contribute significantly to LSU’s receiving corps in 2023. Despite his physical attributes and previous success at the Group of Five level, Lacy struggled to find consistent playing time at LSU. Throughout his lone season with the Tigers, he was unable to secure a starting role and failed to make a significant impact in the receiving game.

Why He Entered the Transfer Portal

For Lacy, the lack of playing time and the competitiveness of LSU’s receiving unit played a significant role in his decision to enter the transfer portal. LSU boasted a talented group of wide receivers, including stars like Malik Nabers and Brian Thomas Jr., which made it difficult for Lacy to carve out a meaningful role. While he showed flashes of his potential, he was unable to break through the depth chart and prove himself as a key contributor to LSU’s offense.

Lacy’s decision to enter the transfer portal is largely motivated by the desire for increased opportunities at his next destination. As a veteran player who has already shown success at a smaller program, he wants a chance to prove himself in a larger role and continue his development as a wide receiver.

Potential Destinations for Lacy

Given his experience and pedigree, Lacy will likely be an appealing transfer target for schools that are looking to add depth to their receiving corps. Programs in need of immediate help at the wide receiver position may look to bring him in as a key contributor. Schools in conferences like the American Athletic Conference, Conference USA, or Sun Belt could be ideal landing spots for Lacy, as these leagues often offer opportunities for players to make an immediate impact.

Moreover, Power Five programs that have a need for experienced wide receivers to complement younger talent may also show interest in Lacy. Teams that are rebuilding their receiving units or that have a strong quarterback but need more pass-catching options could look to Lacy as a steady, reliable option in their offense.

4. Player Three: Defensive Back Demetrius Rhaney

The third LSU transfer still looking for a new school is defensive back Demetrius Rhaney. Rhaney, who joined LSU as a transfer from the University of Memphis, saw limited action during his first season with the Tigers in 2023. Despite his solid play at Memphis, Rhaney struggled to secure a significant role in LSU’s secondary, as the team’s depth and competition in the defensive backfield were too strong.

Why He Entered the Transfer Portal

Like many other players who enter the transfer portal, Rhaney’s decision was largely based on his desire for more playing time. As a talented defensive back with the ability to make plays on the ball, Rhaney found himself in a crowded secondary at LSU. With players like Major Burns, Sage Ryan, and Jarrick Bernard-Converse leading the defense, Rhaney’s opportunities to shine were limited. As a result, Rhaney entered the transfer portal to seek a new opportunity where he could play a more significant role and continue his development.

Potential Destinations for Rhaney

Rhaney’s combination of experience and skill makes him an appealing transfer prospect for schools looking to bolster their secondary. Programs with a need for a veteran cornerback or safety could see Rhaney as a potential starter. Given his experience at both Memphis and LSU, Rhaney could be an ideal fit for a team in need of a player who can step in and contribute right away.

Much like Lacy, Rhaney’s potential landing spots could include schools in the Group of Five, where he could be a key contributor to a defense. At the same time, Power Five schools that need depth in their secondary or that are looking for an experienced player to mentor younger talent may also be interested in bringing Rhaney on board.