“As Spring Practices approach, anticipation for LSU Football and its potential continues to build. The Tigers have bolstered their roster with one of the nation’s top transfer classes, complementing a strong group of returning players to form a team capable of contending for the College Football Playoff.
However, roster additions alone won’t be enough to turn LSU into a championship contender—several players must step up and take on larger roles. The most promising candidates for breakout performances are last season’s freshmen who saw significant playing time and are now poised for bigger responsibilities. Among LSU’s rising sophomores, five players stand out as the next wave of potential superstars.”
Trey’Dez Green
“Trey’Dez Green’s rise to stardom is already underway, thanks to his performance in the Texas Bowl and his appearances on the basketball court. When the 2025 season begins, Green will take over as LSU’s starting tight end and quickly become a nationally recognized name. Head coach Brian Kelly has placed a strong emphasis on the tight end position, and Green may be the most athletically gifted player he has had in that role.”
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Dominick McKinley
“LSU’s top recruit in the 2024 class, consensus five-star defensive tackle Dominick McKinley, took longer to break into the lineup since he wasn’t an early enrollee. However, once he found his footing, he became a formidable interior pass rusher, recording three sacks in limited action. With Gio Paez, Paris Shand, and Jay’Viar Suggs departing, a significant amount of playing time is up for grabs. After a full offseason in the program, McKinley is primed for a breakout sophomore season.”
Ahmad Breaux
“Originally signed as an edge rusher, Ahmad Breaux transitioned to defensive tackle to fill a key need for LSU. He quickly became a reliable contributor, appearing in every game and earning two starts while logging 292 defensive snaps. In the Texas Bowl, Breaux saw his highest snap count yet, and with a full offseason to refine his skills at the position, he is poised for a breakout season on the interior in 2025.”
Gabe Reliford
“Despite LSU adding three transfer edge rushers this offseason, Gabe Reliford remains a strong candidate for a starting role. As the most versatile edge rusher on the roster, he gained valuable experience by appearing in every game during the 2024 season. In 2025, Reliford is set to see an increased workload, whether lining up off the edge or with his hand in the dirt, making him a key player to watch in his sophomore year.”
Dashawn Spears
“LSU secured one of the nation’s top safety recruits last year in Louisiana native Dashawn Spears. As a freshman, he played in 13 games, earning three starts and showcasing his potential with 24 tackles and a pass breakup. With a full offseason to develop and the departures of Major Burns and Sage Ryan, Spears has a prime opportunity to compete for a starting role. LSU needs a young safety to step up, and Spears is the strongest candidate to fill that void.”
