Former LSU Running Back Trey Holly Joins Southern University Football Team as Walk-On, Embraces Fresh Start After Tumultuous Year Off
In a move that has sparked excitement across Louisiana and the HBCU football world, former LSU running back Trey Holly has officially joined the Southern University football program as a walk-on. The decision marks a fresh chapter for the once-heralded four-star recruit, who now looks to reignite his football career just a few miles from where it all began.
Holly, a proud native of Farmerville, Louisiana, was once one of the most prolific high school running backs in state history and a major in-state recruiting win for LSU. But after a promising freshman campaign in Baton Rouge, Holly found himself away from the game due to off-field issues. Now, with those matters behind him and his name cleared, Holly is ready to turn the page—and he’s doing it at Southern University.
A New Chapter Begins
Southern University, located in Baton Rouge just a short drive from LSU’s campus, has welcomed Holly with open arms. The 5-foot-7, 195-pound back will join the Jaguars football team as a walk-on for the 2025 season, with hopes of earning a scholarship and becoming a central figure in the team’s offense.
The decision wasn’t made lightly. Holly had offers and interest from multiple lower-division programs across the country, but staying close to home and continuing to represent Louisiana was important to him and his family. The choice to enroll at Southern is as much about redemption as it is about opportunity.
“Trey wants to show the world who he really is, both on and off the field,” said a source close to the family. “This is about more than football—it’s about proving he can overcome anything.”
Dominant High School Resume
Before he was a Tiger or a Jaguar, Trey Holly was a legend in the Louisiana high school football scene. At Union Parish High School, Holly shattered state records, rushing for over 10,500 career yards, the most in Louisiana prep history. His dazzling runs, relentless motor, and ability to make defenders miss made him a nightmare for opponents and a highlight-reel staple.
Holly was rated as a four-star recruit in the class of 2023 and ranked among the top running backs in the nation. He committed to LSU early in his recruitment, citing a desire to stay home and represent his state on the biggest stage.
That decision made headlines, especially as LSU beat out programs like Alabama, Texas A&M, and Florida for his services.
Early LSU Promise
Holly arrived at LSU in 2023 with high expectations. Despite being part of a crowded running back room, he made an impression in limited action, showing flashes of the speed and vision that made him a high school phenom.
He appeared in a few games, totaling 110 rushing yards on just 11 carries (a 10-yard-per-carry average), including a memorable 67-yard touchdown run that left Tiger fans eager to see more. Coaches praised his work ethic and humility, noting that he quickly earned respect from veteran teammates.
“He’s a tough kid,” former LSU running backs coach Frank Wilson once said. “He doesn’t back down from the moment.”
Off-Field Challenges and Legal Situation
However, Holly’s trajectory took a detour in early 2024 when he was arrested and accused in connection with a shooting incident in Union Parish. He was suspended indefinitely by LSU and spent several months away from the team and the public spotlight.
But in May 2025, Union Parish prosecutors dropped all charges against Holly, and his name was legally cleared of wrongdoing. The exoneration reopened the door to football, but by then, his time at LSU had run its course.
“Trey’s focus now is growth,” his legal team stated following the dismissal. “He’s grateful to those who stood by him and is eager to write the next chapter.”
Southern’s Opportunity—and Advantage
While Holly’s time at LSU ended under difficult circumstances, Southern University’s coaching staff saw an opportunity—not just to bolster their roster with elite talent, but to give a young man a second chance.
Head coach Eric Dooley, who is in the process of building a competitive SWAC program at Southern, welcomed Holly’s arrival with both excitement and caution. “He’s a gifted athlete, no doubt,” Dooley said. “But more importantly, he’s committed to earning everything. There are no handouts here. He’s going to walk on and prove himself.”
Holly’s addition gives Southern a dynamic backfield option with FBS experience and Louisiana roots, something that resonates deeply with the program’s fan base. In the run-heavy SWAC, where physicality and speed dominate, Holly’s play style could be a game-changer.
His arrival also brings immediate buzz to Southern’s offseason. Ticket sales are expected to see an uptick, and the Jaguars’ season opener is already drawing extra media attention.
What Trey Holly Brings to Southern
On the field, Holly’s skillset fits perfectly into what Southern wants to do offensively. He’s a downhill runner with deceptive power for his size and elite burst once he gets into space. His compact build makes him hard to bring down, and his vision allows him to consistently find creases in even the smallest holes.
He’s also a capable pass catcher, giving Southern a true three-down back if he earns the opportunity.
Perhaps just as importantly, Holly brings experience in big-game environments. He’s practiced against SEC defenses, studied under elite coaching, and knows what it takes to compete at the highest level. That knowledge could be invaluable in helping Southern’s younger backs develop.
Redemption, Resilience, and Representation
For Holly, this move is about more than just football. It’s about showing his hometown, his family, and himself that setbacks don’t define you. In a world quick to label and slow to forgive, Holly’s journey to Southern offers a powerful example of resilience and redemption.
It also shines a light on the importance of HBCU programs in creating pathways for athletes who may be overlooked or written off. Southern has not only gained a talented player, but a motivated young man who understands the weight of this opportunity.
“He knows he has to earn everything now,” said a family member. “That’s why Southern is perfect. It’s close to home. It’s a program that believes in second chances.”
What’s Next?
Holly will begin fall camp as a walk-on, with no promises of immediate playing time. But those close to the program say he’s already turning heads in workouts. His presence has elevated the competition in the running back room, and coaches are eager to see how he handles the full playbook and team reps.
If he performs well, don’t be surprised if Holly earns a scholarship before the season is over.
Southern opens the 2025 season with a high-profile non-conference game against Louisiana Tech. Whether Holly plays in that game or not, his story will be one of the most closely followed of the season.
Trey Holly’s decision to join Southern University as a walk-on isn’t just a headline—it’s a message. A message that talent, when matched with humility and perseverance, can always find a home. A message that redemption is possible. And a reminder that in college football, every chapter is written with the next opportunity.
Southern fans are buzzing. Trey Holly is back. And he’s just getting started.
