No buyer’s remorse for LSU football’s transfer portal class. Brian Kelly’s early thoughts.

The LSU Tigers football program has always been a powerhouse in college football, consistently competing for championships and producing NFL talent. However, in recent years, head coach Brian Kelly has faced the challenge of rebuilding a program that had seen some ups and downs, particularly after the departure of former coach Ed Orgeron. One of Kelly’s most significant decisions in rebuilding the LSU football program was utilizing the transfer portal as a primary means of acquiring talent. As the 2024 season draws near, Kelly’s reflections on LSU’s transfer portal class indicate no buyer’s remorse; in fact, he believes the class is a crucial factor in LSU’s path to future success.

In a press conference earlier this spring, Kelly spoke with pride and conviction about the transfers that had joined the Tigers in the offseason. From key defensive players to offensive playmakers, the transfer portal class has added talent, depth, and competition to nearly every position. With the upcoming season on the horizon, Kelly’s initial thoughts on the impact of these players highlight their importance in restoring LSU’s championship pedigree and filling gaps left by departures to the NFL or graduation.

Brian Kelly’s Approach to the Transfer Portal: A Necessary Tool for Rebuilding

When Brian Kelly arrived in Baton Rouge in 2022, the LSU football program was in the midst of a transition. After Orgeron’s departure, the Tigers were left with holes across the roster, and many key contributors had either declared for the NFL draft or transferred out of the program. The transfer portal quickly became a lifeline for Kelly, providing an opportunity to address immediate needs and replenish a depleted roster.

Kelly’s approach to the transfer portal was methodical and strategic. While many schools rushed into the portal to make quick fixes, Kelly took the time to evaluate LSU’s needs and ensure that every transfer would contribute to the program’s long-term success. The result was a well-rounded class of players who could contribute immediately while also aligning with Kelly’s vision for the program.

“The transfer portal is a tool that we have to use to get the best talent available, especially after roster turnover,” Kelly said. “When I got to LSU, there were some gaps in certain positions, and the portal gave us the opportunity to bring in players who can make an impact right away. We’re always looking for players who fit our culture and will elevate the level of competition across the board. No regrets about the decisions we’ve made. We’ve brought in the right guys.”

Kelly’s measured approach to the transfer portal not only brought in immediate contributors but also allowed the program to build the kind of culture and depth that is necessary for sustained success. The players Kelly has brought in, both on offense and defense, are expected to play significant roles in LSU’s quest to compete for championships in the years to come.

Key Transfers: Filling Gaps and Strengthening LSU’s Depth

The LSU Tigers’ transfer portal class has included a number of players who are expected to make an immediate impact, especially in areas where the team was in need of depth and talent. Some of the key players who have made waves in the offseason include Quarterback Jayden Daniels, Defensive Back Mekhi Wingo, and Running Back Logan Diggs. Each of these players is poised to fill important roles on the field, with Kelly expressing his satisfaction in how they’ve adapted to the program.

Jayden Daniels: Stability and Leadership at Quarterback

One of the most significant moves in Kelly’s early tenure at LSU was the transfer of Jayden Daniels from Arizona State. As a mobile quarterback with the ability to make plays with both his arm and his legs, Daniels brought a new dimension to LSU’s offense. Kelly had been seeking a leader at the quarterback position, and Daniels delivered exactly what the coach was looking for in 2022, leading the team to an SEC West championship.

In his first year at LSU, Daniels put up impressive numbers, throwing for 2,913 yards and 17 touchdowns, while also rushing for 885 yards and 11 touchdowns. His dual-threat ability made him one of the most dangerous quarterbacks in college football, and his leadership was pivotal in LSU’s success that season.

Looking ahead to the 2024 season, Kelly remains highly optimistic about Daniels’ continued development and his ability to lead the Tigers to even greater heights. The addition of Daniels through the transfer portal has proven to be one of the most successful moves Kelly made, and it’s clear that he has no regrets about bringing him to Baton Rouge.

“Jayden has been everything we wanted and more,” Kelly said. “He’s grown as a leader, and his ability to manage the game and make plays in critical moments has been outstanding. We feel confident moving forward with him at the helm.”

Mekhi Wingo: Plugging the Gaps on Defense

On the defensive side of the ball, Mekhi Wingo was another transfer that turned heads. The former Missouri defensive lineman had an immediate impact in his first season at LSU, becoming one of the most disruptive defensive players on the team. Wingo’s ability to get after the quarterback and clog up running lanes helped solidify LSU’s defensive line, and Kelly was quick to praise the transfer’s contributions.

Wingo’s addition filled a key need for the Tigers, who were looking to bolster their defensive front after losing several key players to the NFL. His strength, agility, and football IQ made him an ideal fit for LSU’s defensive system, and Kelly believes Wingo’s leadership will continue to be invaluable moving forward.

“Mekhi has been an absolute difference-maker,” Kelly said. “His ability to create pressure in the backfield and be a force against the run has been crucial for us. He’s the kind of player who does all the little things right and sets the tone for the rest of the defense.”

Logan Diggs: Powering the Running Game

In the backfield, LSU added Logan Diggs, a former Notre Dame running back who brings a powerful running style to the Tigers’ offense. Diggs’ ability to grind out tough yards and serve as a reliable workhorse in the backfield was a major reason for his transfer to LSU. In 2023, Diggs rushed for 1,185 yards and 11 touchdowns at Notre Dame, showcasing his ability to be a bell-cow back in a run-first offense.

With LSU’s running back group in need of a leader after the departure of key players, Diggs’ ability to carry the load was exactly what Kelly was looking for. As the Tigers look to establish a balanced offensive attack, Diggs’ vision, power, and speed make him a vital part of LSU’s future plans.

“Logan is a physical back who runs with power, but he’s also got the ability to break off big runs,” Kelly said. “We expect him to be a key part of our offense, and he’s already made an impact since he arrived here.”

No Regrets: Building for the Future

As Kelly reflects on his decisions in the transfer portal, it’s clear that he has no buyer’s remorse. The players LSU has brought in have already made an immediate impact, and Kelly believes that the program is positioned for continued success in the years to come. The combination of experienced transfers and young talent gives the Tigers the depth and skill needed to compete in the ultra-competitive SEC and beyond.

The transfer portal has allowed LSU to address areas of need and build a roster that can challenge for championships. In a college football landscape that is increasingly reliant on the portal, Kelly has utilized it as a key tool for replenishing his roster while also maintaining the culture of excellence that LSU is known for.

“We’ve put together a class that fills key needs and strengthens our overall depth,” Kelly said. “The transfer portal is just one part of the recruiting process, but it’s an important one. We’ve brought in players who fit our system and our culture, and they’ve already made a positive impact on this team.”

With the 2024 season on the horizon, LSU’s transfer portal class is primed to help propel the Tigers to new heights. Kelly’s early thoughts reflect confidence in the program’s direction, and there’s no doubt that these transfers will play a crucial role in LSU’s future success.

Looking Ahead: The SEC Gauntlet

As LSU heads into the 2024 season, there is no question that the SEC will present significant challenges. The Tigers will face top-tier competition week in and week out, with rivals like Alabama, Georgia, and Texas A&M all vying for supremacy in the conference. However, with the addition of key transfers and a strong core of returning players, Kelly believes LSU is positioned to take on those challenges head-on.

“The SEC is always tough,” Kelly said. “But I like where we are as a program. We’ve brought in players who can help us compete with anyone, and we’ve built a strong foundation. We’ve got great players, great leadership, and a great culture here, and we’re ready for the challenges ahead.”

The road to the College Football Playoff will be tough, but with the additions of Daniels, Wingo, Diggs, and others, LSU’s future is bright. As Kelly continues to mold the Tigers into a perennial contender, the transfer portal will remain an essential part of his strategy to keep the program at the top of the college football hierarchy.