As the Tigers move their way towards the end of 2024 spring football, we’re slowly beginning to get a sense of who could see big-time improvement heading into the new season. Earlier this week, LSU coach Brian Kelly spoke about senior defensive back Major Burns and the strides he’s taken in coverage this offseason.
LSU coach Brian Kelly expresses plenty of excitement regarding senior defensive back improvement
There’s never been any doubt about the leadership that senior defensive back Major Burns has brought to the LSU football program. Entering his fifth season of college football, few players have as much experience as him, and it’s benefitted the entire defense this offseason.
With that said, he certainly hasn’t been without fault, particularly when it came to pass coverage throughout the 2023 season. There were several moments in which he found himself looking to do too much, and in turn, he let up quite a few big plays.
Important to note is that he likely wasn’t put in the best position to succeed, which goes hand-in-hand with the recent defensive coaching staff changes, as Blake Baker has taken over for Matt House at defensive coordinator.
Luckily for him, we’re already starting to see some of those offseason changes working wonders for the senior defensive back. Earlier this week, LSU coach Brian Kelly spoke about Burns and his improvement in coverage, and it’s safe to say confidence is growing.
“The one guy that I really think has made more progress than any one individual player in coverage is Major Burns. Major was a bit sloppy last year in coverage. I know everybody would point to the interception against Missouri, which is singularly a huge play – but there were many times where we didn’t have him in coverage on the right guy at the right time – he’s been really really good [this spring].
“I’ve been happy with his off the field as well. In the classroom, doing the right things, he’s really taken a step up in the program and put himself squarely in a position to be a leader. He stands out for me.”
Over the last three years with the purple and gold, Major Burns has proven to be a largely consistent piece for the Tiger defense. With 156 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, one sack, nine pass deflections, and two interceptions under his belt, productivity has never been an issue.
Now, it’s just a matter of waiting and seeing just how much improvement he’s shown this spring. LSU football fans will receive their first opportunity to watch the new and improved senior defensive back later this month, as he’ll participate in the National L-Club Spring Game this Saturday, April 13, at 1:00 p.m. CST on SEC Network+.
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