This offseason, Brian Kelly and the LSU Football Program have made a strong push in the transfer portal, bringing in 13 new players to enhance both immediate impact and future development. While the portal can deplete a team’s depth, it also offers the opportunity to add elite talent capable of transforming a roster into a National Championship contender. Among the 13 transfers, these five stand out as the most impactful additions for LSU:
5. Michael Van Buren (Quarterback, Sophomore, Mississippi State)
After LSU lost recruits Bryce Underwood and Rickie Collins, they needed a quarterback, and Van Buren fits the bill. Despite stepping in due to Blake Shapen’s injury, Van Buren showcased potential, passing for 1,886 yards and 11 touchdowns in nine games. While he won’t start immediately, he provides crucial backup and development as a future leader in LSU’s quarterback room.
4. Barion Brown (Wide Receiver, Senior, Kentucky)
LSU’s major transfer win came with the addition of Barion Brown, a dynamic playmaker from Kentucky. Though his stats weren’t eye-popping due to Kentucky’s struggles at quarterback, Brown is a speedster who can change the game, especially as a deep threat and kick returner. He brings an element LSU lacked last season, adding a potent weapon to their offense.
3. Mansoor Delane (Cornerback, Senior, Virginia Tech)
A key addition to LSU’s defensive backfield, Delane was regarded as a second-to-third round draft pick. Known for his tackling and versatility, he could play either cornerback or safety, immediately boosting LSU’s defense. His experience and skill set make him a significant upgrade for the Tigers’ secondary.
2. Nic Anderson (Wide Receiver, Redshirt Junior, Oklahoma)
With Barion Brown already in the fold, LSU secured another crucial wide receiver in Nic Anderson. Standing at 6’4″, Anderson provides a much-needed bigger target on the outside. Despite missing the 2024 season due to injury, Anderson had a stellar 2023, catching 38 passes for 798 yards and 10 touchdowns, making him a potential top target for quarterback Garrett Nussmeier.
1. Patrick Payton (Edge Rusher, Redshirt Senior, Florida State)
The addition of Payton, a proven pass rusher with 7 sacks in 2023, strengthens LSU’s edge rush dramatically. While LSU had already added Jack Pyburn and Jimari Butler, Payton brings a higher level of talent and pass-rush ability, giving LSU a top-tier edge rusher who can reach double-digit sacks. His combination of skills, including 10 batted passes in 2023, will be critical in LSU’s defensive game plan.
