LSU Tigers head coach Brian Kelly faces a pivotal challenge as the team prepares for the 2025 college football season. The departure of key offensive players, including sixth-year senior running back Josh Williams and standout wide receivers Malik Nabers and Brian Thomas Jr., has left significant gaps in the Tigers’ offensive lineup. Williams concluded his LSU career on December 31, 2024, during the Texas Bowl against the Baylor Bears, reflecting on his journey and expressing deep gratitude for his time with the team.

 

In response to these departures, Kelly has unveiled a comprehensive plan to revitalize the Tigers’ offense for the upcoming season. A central component of this strategy is the integration of versatile athletes into key offensive roles. One notable example is Ju’Juan Johnson, a Louisiana high school standout known for his record-breaking performances at Lafayette Christian Academy. Initially recruited as a defensive back and later utilized as a running back, Johnson has expressed a desire to transition to the quarterback position. Kelly has acknowledged this ambition, indicating plans to incorporate Johnson into the quarterback rotation during spring practices. This move aims to introduce a dual-threat dynamic to the Tigers’ offense, potentially adding a new layer of unpredictability to their playbook.

 

At the running back position, the Tigers are poised to rely on a mix of experience and fresh talent. Sophomore Kaleb Jackson and true freshman Caden Durham, who was the only back with the speed to challenge defenses outside traditional lanes last season, are expected to play pivotal roles. Additionally, incoming freshmen Harlem Berry and JT Lindsey are anticipated to inject speed and agility into the perimeter running game. The success of this strategy will depend not only on the running backs but also on the effectiveness of the offensive line and the blocking capabilities of tight ends and wide receivers.

 

The wide receiver corps, despite the loss of Nabers and Thomas Jr., remains robust. Kelly has emphasized the depth and versatility of this group, highlighting players like Kyren Lacy, Chris Hilton, and transfers CJ Daniels and Zavion Thomas. This diverse lineup is expected to provide quarterback Garrett Nussmeier with a broad array of targets, facilitating a dynamic and multifaceted passing game.

 

Kelly’s approach reflects a blend of strategic innovation and adaptive planning. By leveraging the diverse skill sets of his players and fostering a culture of flexibility, he aims to navigate the challenges posed by the recent departures and position the Tigers for a competitive 2025 season. The upcoming spring practices will be crucial in refining these strategies and assessing their potential effectiveness on the field.