Brian Kelly has been actively engaged in communication throughout the offseason, orchestrating various changes for the Tigers in recent weeks. The team has been quite active, addressing needs through the Transfer Portal and new coaching hires. Kelly and his team identified specific position groups that required attention, and they have now executed some strategic moves. An exploration of these acquisitions reveals the individuals who could have an immediate positive influence on the program.
The Additions
WR Zavion Thomas – Mississippi State
The Tigers have secured a formidable asset for the upcoming 2024 season in the form of a proven return specialist boasting elite-level hands.
Having spent two years in Starkville, Thomas expressed a desire for a change and chose to enter the NCAA Transfer Portal. The Louisiana native made the decision to join the Tigers, a program that swiftly recognized and pursued his talents as an elite wide receiver and return specialist.
LSU wasted no time in addressing Thomas, despite his popularity in the transfer portal. The team went all out, even organizing an unofficial visit last month. Following his impressive 2023 season, where he amassed 503 yards on 40 receptions, Thomas is poised to become a crucial component of LSU’s plans for the upcoming season. Keep a close eye on this Louisiana native, who is expected to make significant contributions both as a sought-after wide receiver and a dynamic return specialist.
AJ Swann: Quarterback
During Swann’s two seasons as a Commodore, he made a total of 15 appearances, securing 12 starts. In the 2023 season, he demonstrated his skills by starting in all six games he played, accumulating 1,457 passing yards and 12 touchdowns while minimizing interceptions to just seven.
At the onset of the 2023 season, the 6-foot-2, 225-pound quarterback was designated as Vanderbilt’s starting signal-caller, but unfortunately, an injury forced him to sit out for the remainder of the season.
While Garrett Nussmeier is set to take on the role of the Tigers’ starting quarterback in 2024, LSU recognizes the value of having a proven signal-caller like Swann as a backup option. Acquiring Swann ensures that LSU has a reliable and experienced quarterback in reserve, adding depth and security to the team’s roster.
Jyaire Brown: Cornerback
Brown, hailing from Louisiana, entered the Transfer Portal with a significant three years of eligibility still ahead. As a former four-star cornerback, he garnered interest from several SEC programs, ultimately solidifying his commitment to the Tigers.
Brian Kelly has emphasized the strategic pursuit of Louisiana natives with multiple years of eligibility, and Brown perfectly fits that criteria. In his two seasons at Ohio State, he contributed nine tackles and three defended passes, displaying potential that could be further unlocked with increased playing time.
As the Tigers grapple with a lack of stability in the cornerback room, keep an eye on Brown, a former Top 250 prospect, as he is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping LSU’s defensive backfield in the upcoming season.
Defensive Back Austin Ausberry: Auburn
Last month, LSU secured the commitment of Austin Ausberry, a defensive back from Auburn who hails from Baton Rouge. Ausberry, a former four-star prospect out of U-High, was a notable addition to Auburn’s 2022 recruiting class.
Following a redshirt season in his freshman year, Ausberry had limited playing time in the 2023 season, participating in just 35 snaps across four games and recording a single tackle.
Now back in his hometown, Ausberry aims for a fresh start and hopes to make a meaningful impact for the Tigers. His commitment continues the trend of Louisiana natives returning to the Bayou State, adding depth and local talent to LSU’s roster. Keep an eye on Ausberry as he looks to contribute to the Tigers’ success with three years of eligibility remaining.
Safety Jardin Gilbert – Texas A&M
Another Louisiana native, the former U-High standout, is making a homecoming to don the purple and gold with two seasons of eligibility remaining.
Standing at 6-foot-1 and weighing 200 pounds, Gilbert brings the size that this program is actively seeking as they aim to bolster their defensive backs through the portal.
In the 2023 season, Gilbert began as a starter at Texas A&M but unfortunately had his junior campaign curtailed by a shoulder injury after just two games. Despite the limited playing time, he made a notable impact with five tackles, a pass breakup, and a contribution to a tackle for loss.
After 23 games in College Station, the prized safety was ready for a change, and the LSU Tigers made the call.
Now back in his home state, Gilbert has the opportunity to represent the Bayou Bengals and conclude his college career. With the program facing challenges in the secondary, the Transfer Portal becomes a crucial window for adding reinforcements, and Gilbert is expected to make an immediate impact with his experience, particularly given the current lack of proven bodies in the safety room.
The Latest Addition: Liberty WR CJ Daniels
Louisiana State University has successfully secured a commitment and enrollment from CJ Daniels, the standout wideout from Liberty. Recognized as a Top 10 player in the NCAA Transfer Portal, Daniels was the highly coveted “big fish” that the program had been diligently pursuing.
After being courted by some of the top programs in the country upon entering the portal, Daniels has now chosen to join the Bayou Bengals in Death Valley, with LSU finalizing the deal in January. His visits included stops at Texas and Oregon, among others.
Daniels showcased his skills with an impressive 2023 season at Liberty, amassing 55 catches for 1,067 yards and 10 touchdowns, marking a breakout year for the talented wide receiver. Over his four-year career, he has accumulated 106 catches for 1,954 yards and 21 touchdowns. Notably, his previous high in receiving yards was in 2021, when he recorded 37 catches for 629 yards and seven touchdowns. Additionally, Daniels has experience as a punt returner during his time with Liberty.
Now holding the distinction as the Tigers’ most significant Transfer Portal addition, Daniels is expected to play a crucial role as the primary wide receiver for Cortez Hankton’s unit in the upcoming 2024 season. His impressive track record and versatility make him a key asset for LSU.
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