LSU Football Staffer Identifies Multiple Tigers Ready to ‘Take the Next Step’…See more….

Baton Rouge, LA – With spring practices wrapped up and preseason preparations underway, excitement is quietly building in the LSU Tigers’ football program. According to an internal report shared by an LSU staffer and first circulated by local media, **several players have been identified as poised to “take the next step”** heading into the 2025 season.

The development comes as Head Coach Brian Kelly and his staff continue to shape the roster for another competitive run in the SEC. After a season filled with highs and lessons learned, it’s clear LSU is banking on internal growth just as much as new talent to elevate their performance.

The staffer, who requested anonymity but is closely involved with player development and training sessions, singled out **a handful of rising stars. that fans should keep an eye on.

We’ve got several guys who’ve shown the maturity, work ethic, and leadership you need to become more than just solid contributors,” the staffer said. “They’re ready to be stars.

Kaleb Jackson (RB, Sophomore):** After showing flashes last season with his physical running style, Jackson is reportedly in “elite shape” and has taken on more responsibility in the offense. Coaches believe he’s ready to handle a heavier workload.

Whit Weeks (LB, Sophomore): A speedy and instinctual linebacker, Weeks impressed late in the 2024 season and has bulked up while maintaining his quickness. Defensive coaches see him as a future anchor of the defense.

Zalance Heard (OL, Sophomore):** Once a top recruit, Heard is reportedly pushing for a starting role after refining his technique and adding strength. His emergence could help solidify a line tasked with protecting a new starting quarterback.

In addition to the rising underclassmen, the report also highlighted several returning veterans expected to take a leadership leap:

Harold Perkins Jr. (LB): Already considered one of the most talented defenders in college football, Perkins is focusing more on his coverage skills and positional flexibility. Coaches believe he could become an every-down playmaker, not just a pass-rushing threat.

Kyren Lacy (WR): Entering his senior season, Lacy has reportedly become a vocal leader in the locker room. With Malik Nabers and Brian Thomas Jr. gone to the NFL, Lacy could become the go-to target in LSU’s passing game.

With Jayden Daniels now in the NFL, LSU enters a pivotal year at quarterback. All eyes are on Garrett Nussmeier**, who is the presumptive starter. The staffer noted Nussmeier has made “significant strides in command and timing,” and his connection with the younger receivers has been a point of emphasis in offseason drills.

Redshirt freshman Rickie Collins was also mentioned as an “emerging talent,” signaling that the quarterback room remains competitive and full of long-term potential.

Under Brian Kelly’s leadership, LSU has focused heavily on building depth, developing character, and fostering player-led accountability. The staffer’s comments suggest the locker room is responding.

The hunger is there. You can feel it,” the staffer said. “These guys aren’t just waiting to be told what to do — they’re pushing themselves and each other.”

Coming off a strong recruiting cycle and with a wave of maturing talent, the Tigers appear poised to make noise in the SEC once again. While questions remain about certain position groups, particularly in the secondary and special teams, LSU’s internal optimism is high.

If the players identified truly make that next leap, LSU could find themselves not just in the top 10 — but potentially in serious College Football Playoff contention.