The transfer portal season is drawing to a close, with only a few players still undecided. LSU football has experienced several departures through this process, primarily from its depth roster. Despite these losses, Coach Brian Kelly and his staff have successfully retained key impact players. According to 247Sports, 19 LSU athletes entered the portal following the 2024 season, with 16 of them securing new homes. Notably, cornerback Bernard Causey recently committed to Georgia State. Three players remain in limbo: wide receiver Landon Ibieta, defensive lineman De’Myrion Johnson, and defensive lineman Jalen Lee. These athletes may wait until spring for better opportunities, as teams often need reinforcements at specific positions.

Evaluating LSU's Departing Players

The majority of LSU's departing players were not central to the team's core lineup. The coaching staff managed to retain influential contributors, ensuring that the overall strength of the team remains intact. Among those who left, 19 players entered the transfer portal after the 2024 season. Sixteen have already found new programs, including cornerback Bernard Causey, who joined Georgia State. This successful transition reflects the strategic efforts of the coaching staff in managing player movements.

Of the 19 players who initially entered the portal, most had varying levels of involvement within the team. Many were depth pieces, which allowed the program to maintain stability without significant disruption. The fact that 16 players quickly secured new placements underscores the marketability of LSU talent and the effectiveness of the coaching staff in supporting their decisions. The departures highlight the dynamic nature of college football, where players seek opportunities that align with their career aspirations.

Potential Futures for Remaining Players

Three LSU players—wide receiver Landon Ibieta, defensive lineman De’Myrion Johnson, and defensive lineman Jalen Lee—are still exploring their options. These athletes might delay committing until the spring when more openings become available, particularly at positions like wide receiver and defensive line. Waiting could provide them with a broader range of choices and potentially better fits for their skills.

Ibieta and Johnson both possess several years of eligibility and received multiple Power Five offers during high school, indicating their potential to thrive at higher levels. Meanwhile, Jalen Lee, who previously played at Florida before transferring to LSU, has faced injury challenges. Despite these setbacks, all three players have the capability to perform at Power Five standards but may prioritize immediate playing time at lower-tier programs. This strategic approach allows them to maximize their collegiate careers while seeking the best possible opportunities.