Five LSU players primed for a breakout in 2024

It’s been a busy offseason for LSU, but with the first transfer window closed, the 2024 signing class nearing the finish line, and the staff finalized, we have a better idea of what LSU football will look like this fall.

We’re still months away from kickoff, but it’s never too early to look at some players who could be prime for a breakout year in Baton Rouge. Some of these guys made an impact last year, but will be looking to take up a notch. Others will be first-time starters looking to make a name.

Let’s jump right in and see who LSU is counting on to take a step forward in Brian Kelly’s third-year.

(Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

LSU’s defense was not good in 2023, but Oregon transfer Bradyn Swinson was a bright spot.

He ranked seventh among SEC edge rushers in PFF pass-rushing grade and 10th in pass rush win rate. At Oregon in 2022, he ranked second in the Pac-12 in pass rush win rate among players with 70+ pass rush snaps.

LSU brought in Kevin Peoples to coach the pass rushers. Peoples has a proven track record of development and could now help Swinson find that extra gear.

Blake Baker’s defense is one that needs to put pressure on the QB. Swinson could be that guy for LSU in 2024.

DJ Chester

With Charles Turner off to the NFL, LSU’s center spot is open. Right now, it looks like Chester’s spot to lose.

According to 247Sports, Chester was the top interior offensive line prospect in his class in 2023. On top of that, he’s the only returning player on LSU’s roster with center experience, playing 81 snaps last year.

Center is the only spot where LSU will be replacing a starter, which gives Chester a little bit of room for some growing pains, but LSU can’t afford him to be a liability here either.

With his talent and another offseason working with offensive line coach Brad Davis, expect Chester to…

Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/five-lsu-players-primed-breakout-175559026.html

Author : LSU Tigers Wire

Publish date : 2024-01-29 17:55:59

Copyright for syndicated content belongs to the linked Source.