With his most recent purchase, Brian Kelly might have just saved his job at LSU.

A.J. Haulcy’s Commitment Could Be a Game-Changer for LSU—and Brian Kelly

Heading into the offseason, LSU’s most obvious weakness was its secondary. That changed when former Houston safety A.J. Haulcy announced his commitment to the Tigers, giving Brian Kelly a potential difference-maker just when he needed one most—not only for the defense but possibly for his own job stability.

Kelly’s tenure in Baton Rouge has been a mixed bag so far. While he’s pulled in strong recruiting classes and made waves in the transfer portal, inconsistent results have led to growing scrutiny. This offseason, the biggest question mark was whether LSU could shore up its defensive backfield. Haulcy might be the answer.

With 259 tackles, seven interceptions, and 15 pass deflections in three seasons between New Mexico and Houston, Haulcy brings both experience and production. He was one of the top defenders in the spring portal after a First-Team All-Big 12 campaign featuring five picks and over 70 tackles—despite quarterbacks often avoiding his side of the field.

LSU’s 2025 schedule offers no time for warm-ups. The season opens with a high-stakes road game at Clemson, likely a top-10 clash. From there, the Tigers face a gauntlet including Florida, Ole Miss, Texas A\&M, South Carolina, Alabama, and Oklahoma. It’s a brutal path, but one that could vault LSU into playoff contention if things break right.

Best case? A 10-2 season and a shot at the SEC title. Worst case? A middling 7-5 record that reignites questions about Kelly’s leadership.

That’s why Haulcy’s arrival is so crucial. He’s not just another addition—he’s a stabilizing force in a high-pressure year. And in a season where every game could shape the future of the program, that could make all the difference.