Depth in the LSU Secondary Raises the Bar

Look Beyond the Hype

PJ Woodland is a second-year player who flew under the radar as a recruit but simply flashes whenever he’s on the field. Woodland earned valuable snaps as a true freshman. He finished the year with five tackles and one PBU in the Texas Bowl. Now he’s added weight to his slight frame, adding strength to go with his already impressive coverage ability. There’s no doubt that Woodland will play; the only question is how significant his role will be. Florida transfer Ja’Keem Jackson was a highly regarded high school recruit. An injury prematurely ended his first season as a starter in 2024. Jackson was having a great Fall camp, but has not been a full participant recently. The good news is it doesn’t seem to be anything serious. Look for Jackson to work his way into the rotation, giving LSU five cornerbacks the staff legitimately trusts on the field.

Transfers Takeover at Safety

This transfer portal class may have been the most impactful for LSU at the safety position. All-Big 12 selection AJ Haulcy has quickly entrenched himself as a starter at safety. The former Houston star transferred to LSU after the Spring. The staff has raved about his physical nature, instincts, and experience. Haulcy had five interceptions in 2024, which is two more than all the LSU safeties had combined last season. North Carolina State transfer Tamarcus Cooley has gotten the most first-team reps at the other safety spot. Cooley adds valuable versatility with his experience and ability to play nickel. This gives Blake Baker more flexibility. It could allow LSU to play with three safeties on the field if deemed necessary.

But Wait, There’s More

Sophomore Dashawn Spears will also figure into this mix and still has a chance to start. Spears was hesitant at times in 2024, which is understandable from a true freshman. Physically, he’s as impressive as any other safety on the roster. He’s thrived in coverage against LSU’s talented tight ends. The Tigers have added so much depth that 2024’s starting safety, Jardin Gilbert, has gotten time at the star position in Fall camp. Gilbert is now fully healthy after playing through a shoulder injury last year. Finally, we can’t forget about Javien Toviano. He’s now a junior and has played cornerback, nickel, and safety for the Tigers. Talent has never been the issue for Toviano. At the very least, he was a top-10 safety recruit by all services. This safety room has everything from big hitters to coverage specialists. The varied skill sets are invaluable for Baker as the team enters its second year under his leadership. He can mix and match to ensure the best matchups according to the offensive personnel. There is now an increased understanding among his players that his system is in place. We don’t know where this defense will finish nationally. But the depth in the LSU secondary should lead to improved results in 2025. Main Photo: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images