LSU faced questions about addressing the running back depth issue following the departure of former five-star recruit John Emery, leaving the Tigers with only three scholarship backs.
The coaching staff explored the Transfer Portal and ultimately opted for an unconventional solution: Emery himself. Emery has announced his decision to withdraw from the portal and return to Baton Rouge for his final season. This move bolsters the Tigers’ depth and provides Emery with another opportunity to showcase his talent and fulfill the high expectations that accompanied his arrival.
High Hopes from High School
The former standout from Destrehan High School arrived at LSU in 2019 with impressive credentials, rated as a five-star recruit and the second-ranked high school running back in the nation according to the 247Sports composite rankings. Emery saw action in 10 games during his freshman year, sharing the backfield with future NFL first-round pick Clyde Edwards-Helaire.
In his sophomore season, Emery showcased his talent by averaging five yards per carry in 2020 and contributing 14 receptions, demonstrating his versatility in the passing game. Despite finishing second on the team in rushing yards, his anticipated ascent to the starting role in 2021 was derailed by academic ineligibility, preventing him from playing that season.
Despite setbacks, Emery made a strong comeback in 2022, recording over 500 yards from scrimmage and scoring eight touchdowns, marking his most productive season at LSU. However, in 2023, during a memorable play against Florida, tragedy struck again. After an impressive juke to evade a defender at the line of scrimmage, Emery tore his ACL while attempting another move near the goal line, abruptly ending his senior season.
The Current Running Back Room
Given Emery’s string of misfortune, it’s understandable why he might contemplate transferring for a fresh start. The return of Josh Williams, a reliable player who has transitioned from walk-on to scholarship athlete, adds depth to the position. Williams brings versatility as a runner, blocker, and receiver, earning the coaching staff’s admiration.
However, the Tigers also have promising options in sophomore Kaleb Jackson, who possesses both speed and agility, and true freshman Caden Durham, a physical runner despite his remarkable speed. Durham was part of LSU’s highly-ranked 2024 signing class.
Emery’s potential role in the 2024 offense remains uncertain due to his injury recovery status. Nonetheless, it’s evident that LSU needed more than what they had in his absence to navigate through their challenging conference schedule.
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