Reinventing the Roster with Elite Talent
The LSU football program has undergone a transformative phase, leveraging the NCAA Transfer Portal to reshape its lineup. As 19 players from the 2024 roster departed Baton Rouge over the past few months, Coach Kelly and his staff have been diligent in recruiting top-tier talent. This proactive approach underscores the importance of the portal in fortifying the team for the upcoming fall.
A New Chapter in Las Vegas: Former Tigers Join UNLV
Three former LSU players have found a new home with the UNLV Rebels as Dan Mullen reconstructs his roster in Las Vegas. Jalen Lee, a defensive lineman who transferred from Florida to LSU, will reunite with his old coach after battling injuries during his time in Baton Rouge. Lee, a four-star recruit out of high school, brings valuable experience and leadership to the Rebels' defense.
Lee’s career highlights include 21 tackles, a sack, and a forced fumble across 36 games. Despite limited playing time in 2024 due to injuries, he remains a formidable presence on the field. His return to work with Mullen promises a fresh start and an opportunity to showcase his full potential.
Denver Harris: A Journey Through College Football
Denver Harris, a cornerback with a unique college career trajectory, has announced his transfer to UNLV. After starting at Texas A&M in 2022, Harris moved to LSU in 2023, where he saw limited action. He then enrolled at UTSA for the 2024 season, making this his fourth school in as many years. Harris expressed gratitude to the UTSA family before entering the transfer portal once again.
Rated as the No. 6 overall prospect in Texas and the No. 3 cornerback in the 2022 recruiting class, Harris was a prized recruit. His decision to join the UNLV Rebels signifies another chapter in his collegiate journey, offering him a chance to establish himself under Mullen’s guidance. The West Coast move presents new challenges and opportunities for growth.
Koy Moore: A Veteran Receiver Finds Stability
Koy Moore, a veteran wide receiver, has signed with UNLV after stops at LSU, Auburn, and Western Kentucky. Over his five-year college career, Moore has appeared in 41 games, accumulating 52 receptions for 613 yards and one touchdown. His most productive season came in 2022 with Auburn, where he logged 20 catches for 314 yards and a touchdown.
Moore’s experience and versatility make him a valuable addition to the Rebels' offense. His ability to contribute immediately should help bolster the receiving corps and provide depth. With UNLV, Moore seeks to solidify his role and make a lasting impact on the field.
LSU’s Transfer Portal Success: A Blueprint for Future Growth
Despite losing key players, LSU has emerged as a powerhouse in the transfer market. The program holds the No. 1 Transfer Portal Class, thanks to its elite-level recruiting efforts and attractive NIL packages. Among the notable additions are Bauer Sharp (Oklahoma), Barion Brown (Kentucky), Michael Van Buren (Mississippi State), Destyn Hill (Florida State), Nic Anderson (Oklahoma), Braelin Moore (Virginia Tech), Josh Thompson (Northwestern), Donovan Green (Texas A&M), Ja’Keem Jackson (Florida), Jimari Butler (Nebraska), Jack Pyburn (Florida), Mansoor Delane (Virginia Tech), Sydir Mitchell (Texas), Patrick Payton (Florida State), Tamarcus Cooley (North Carolina State), and Grant Chadwick (Middle Tennessee).
This influx of talent positions LSU as a formidable force in college football. The combination of experienced transfers and emerging stars sets the stage for a competitive and dynamic roster. As the team prepares for the 2025 season, fans can expect a well-rounded squad capable of achieving great success on the field.