During spring camp, three LSU football transfer additions have drawn attention.

During Spring Camp, Three LSU Football Transfer Additions Have Drawn Attention

As the 2025 spring football camp gets underway for the LSU Tigers, fans, analysts, and coaches alike are looking for early indications of what could be an exciting season ahead. One of the most talked-about aspects of LSU’s offseason has been the transfer portal, which has allowed the Tigers to make significant additions to their roster. LSU head coach Brian Kelly, who is heading into his third year with the program, has been very active in recruiting players from the transfer portal to fill crucial gaps and enhance his team’s depth.

Among the new arrivals, three transfer players have stood out during LSU’s spring practices, drawing attention for their potential to make an immediate impact on the field. These newcomers have not only bolstered positions of need but also brought fresh energy and competition to the team as LSU looks to build on the momentum of a strong 2024 season. In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the three transfer players who have generated the most buzz during spring camp, examining their backgrounds, strengths, and the roles they could play in LSU’s 2025 campaign.

1. Harold Perkins Jr. – Linebacker (Transfer from Oklahoma)

One of the most anticipated additions to LSU’s defense is Harold Perkins Jr., a highly regarded linebacker transfer from Oklahoma. Perkins, who played for the Sooners during the 2023 season, brings with him a reputation as one of the most physically gifted and versatile linebackers in the country. Known for his speed, strength, and instincts, Perkins is a player who can line up in a variety of spots on the field and make an impact.

While he was a standout for Oklahoma, LSU’s defense has long been known for its aggressive style and physical play, and Perkins’ talents make him a perfect fit for LSU’s scheme. During spring camp, Perkins has been turning heads with his ability to cover ground quickly and disrupt plays. His speed and ability to diagnose plays have made him a standout in both passing coverage and against the run, and it’s clear that defensive coordinator Matt House has big plans for him.

What makes Perkins such an intriguing addition is his versatility. Whether it’s rushing the passer, covering tight ends or running backs in the passing game, or simply filling gaps in the run game, Perkins brings a skill set that is well-suited for LSU’s fast-paced and unpredictable defense. His presence gives LSU’s defense a dynamic playmaker who can contribute in multiple ways, which is crucial for a team that aims to challenge for an SEC title and beyond in 2025.

2. Malik Nabers – Wide Receiver (Transfer from Georgia)

On the offensive side of the ball, Malik Nabers, a wide receiver transfer from Georgia, has also drawn significant attention during LSU’s spring practices. Nabers, who spent his first few years at Georgia developing into a physical, well-rounded receiver, made the decision to transfer to LSU for his final season of eligibility in hopes of elevating his game to the next level. With Kayshon Boutte moving on to the NFL, LSU needed a reliable and explosive weapon in the passing game, and Nabers seems to be the answer.

At 6’3” and weighing in at 205 pounds, Nabers has the size and physicality to win jump balls and create mismatches against defensive backs. He also possesses the speed and agility to stretch the field and make big plays. What has impressed LSU coaches during spring camp is Nabers’ ability to create separation from defenders, his smooth route-running, and his hands. He has already developed an excellent rapport with quarterback Garrett Nussmeier, and the two have shown a natural connection on the field.

What makes Nabers such an exciting addition is the potential to step into a leadership role for the LSU receiving corps. Alongside talented returning players like Brian Thomas Jr. and Jack Bech, Nabers gives LSU a formidable receiving group capable of creating explosive plays both in the passing game and after the catch. His experience in the highly competitive SEC with Georgia, combined with his elite physical traits, makes him a player to watch in 2025.

Nabers’ ability to make an immediate impact was evident during the first few practices of spring camp, as he consistently made plays downfield. His physicality and ability to win contested catches will be a valuable asset for LSU’s offense as they look to replicate and build on their success from the previous season.

3. Eli Ricks – Cornerback (Transfer from Alabama)

Another major transfer addition to LSU’s roster is Eli Ricks, a cornerback who comes to Baton Rouge after a standout career at Alabama. A former five-star recruit, Ricks was a shutdown corner during his time with the Crimson Tide, earning a reputation as one of the most physically gifted defensive backs in college football. After spending several seasons at Alabama, Ricks decided to transfer to LSU, where he hopes to continue his development and make an even bigger impact at the collegiate level.

During his time at Alabama, Ricks proved that he could lock down opposing wide receivers, and his ability to turn his head and track the ball in the air is one of his defining traits. What LSU’s coaching staff has noticed during spring camp is Ricks’ ability to cover receivers with ease, whether it’s in man-to-man coverage or zone defense. His quickness, size, and ball skills have made him a standout in LSU’s secondary, and he’s been one of the most consistent performers throughout the spring practices.

Ricks’ addition to LSU’s defense is particularly significant because it addresses a key need in the Tigers’ secondary. In 2024, LSU showed flashes of brilliance on defense but also had some struggles in the back end. By adding a player of Ricks’ caliber, LSU now has an elite corner who can match up with the best receivers in the SEC. Ricks’ ability to shut down a top-tier receiver on the outside will allow LSU’s defense to be more aggressive in other areas, knowing they can trust their cornerbacks to lock down opposing threats.

With Ricks in the fold, LSU now has a dynamic and deep secondary, which will be crucial as they face high-powered offenses throughout the season. His presence adds a level of stability to the cornerback position, and he is expected to make a major impact both in the SEC and on the national stage.

How These Transfers Fit Into LSU’s Long-Term Vision

The additions of Harold Perkins Jr., Malik Nabers, and Eli Ricks address several key needs for LSU as they look toward the 2025 season. Each player brings unique skills and experiences to the team, strengthening areas of the roster that were either lacking or in need of more depth.

For Brian Kelly, the key to success in the SEC—and at LSU in particular—is having a well-rounded team that is capable of excelling in every facet of the game. The offensive line, defensive line, and skill positions all require top-tier talent, and these three transfers will help ensure that LSU remains competitive in all areas.

• Perkins’ versatility gives LSU’s defense a game-changing element, allowing them to create chaos and make plays in multiple ways. His presence on the field allows defensive coordinator Matt House to be more creative with his schemes, knowing that Perkins can be relied upon to execute any number of assignments.
• Nabers’ playmaking ability helps fill the void left by the departure of Kayshon Boutte. As LSU continues to build a balanced offensive attack, Nabers will play a key role in providing stability to the receiving corps and providing big-play potential in the passing game.
• Ricks’ lockdown ability is a game-changer for LSU’s secondary. His experience in the SEC, combined with his exceptional physical traits, makes him an ideal fit for LSU’s defensive system. He is expected to help elevate LSU’s defense to elite status, particularly against the high-powered passing offenses they will face in the SEC.