Here’s a polished summary of LSU’s revamped 2025 defense following an aggressive transfer portal overhaul:
LSU’s 2025 Defense: A Rebuilt Powerhouse Ready to Return to Form
After multiple seasons of underwhelming defensive play, LSU approached the 2025 offseason with urgency—and delivered. Brian Kelly and his staff attacked the transfer portal with purpose, landing high-impact talent at every level. Now, with key additions like AJ Haulcy and Bernard Gooden, the Tigers’ defense resembles the dominant units of LSU’s past.
Edge Rusher: Patrick Payton & Gabe Reliford
Rotation: Jack Pyburn, Jimari Butler
Florida State transfer Patrick Payton brings proven pass-rush talent, while sophomore Gabe Reliford’s spring emergence gives LSU upside off the edge. Pyburn adds grit in run defense, and Butler adds depth in a crowded room.
Defensive Tackle: Bernard Gooden & Dominick McKinley
Rotation: Jacobian Guillory, Ahmad Breaux, Sydir Mitchell
USF transfer Bernard Gooden headlines a revamped DT group. Dominick McKinley provides pass-rush ability from the interior, while veteran Guillory returns from injury. Breaux and Mitchell offer valuable rotational depth.
Linebacker: Whit Weeks & Dahvon Keys
Rotation: West Weeks, Tylen Singleton
Whit Weeks returns as the heart of the defense. Rising star Dahvon Keys impressed with 10 tackles against Oklahoma and is poised for a breakout sophomore season.
Star: Harold Perkins Jr.
Though recovering from an ACL tear, Perkins is transitioning to a full-time “star” role—tailor-made for his explosive playstyle. If healthy, his presence could be transformative.
Cornerback: Mansoor Delane & DJ Pickett
Rotation: Ashton Stamps, PJ Woodland, Ja’Keem Jackson
Delane, a Virginia Tech transfer, brings shutdown ability. True freshman DJ Pickett looks ready to start opposite him. With solid depth behind them, Corey Raymond’s DB room is the best it’s looked in years.
Nickel: Tamarcus Cooley
Rotation: PJ Woodland, Javien Toviano
NC State transfer Cooley thrives at nickel but is versatile enough to play deep safety in multi-safety sets—especially with Perkins flexing to star.
Safety: AJ Haulcy & Jardin Gilbert
Rotation: Javien Toviano, Dashawn Spears
Haulcy is the crown jewel of LSU’s portal haul. With five interceptions and elite coverage metrics last season, he finally gives LSU a top-tier safety. Gilbert, returning from injury, brings starting experience and stability.
Bottom Line:
LSU’s defense has undergone a complete transformation. From adding proven pass-rushers and plug-and-play transfers to developing young stars like Pickett and Keys, this unit now has the depth, talent, and versatility to compete at the highest level. If the pieces come together—and Perkins returns healthy—the Tigers could reestablish themselves as a defensive powerhouse in the SEC.
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