LSU football’s safety play hasn’t been up to par in recent years, but that should change in 2025.
LSU was aggressive in the transfer portal, signing two prized transfers at the safety position. Along with the new additions, LSU is counting on young talent to take another step.
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LSU defensive coordinator Blake Baker met with the media as fall camp is in full swing. He talked about LSU’s progress at safety, highlighting the experience and depth.
“I think with the additions of TaMarcus Cooley and A.J. Haulcy, it’s been really, really good. Especially with AJ. He’s played a lot of football. He’s extremely instinctual, one of the most instinctual players I’ve been around,” Baker said.
Haulcy comes to LSU from Houston, where he was one of the Big 12’s most productive safeties. He was a spring portal entry and was immediately considered one of the best available defenders of the cycle. LSU made Haulcy a priority, beating out Miami for his commitment.
It’s not just Haulcy, though. LSU has quality depth at the position. That’s something LSU hasn’t had under Brian Kelly this far.
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“When you look at the depth in that room, again, we talk about DeShawn Spears, Toviano, Jardin Gilbert. It’s a good problem to have. It’s a good luxury to have, and that’s kind of going to be the recurring theme as we move on, when I really feel good about our depth across the board,” Baker said.
LSU’s defense struggled to contain explosive plays in 2023 and 2024. Upgraded safety play should have that under control in 2025.
This article originally appeared on LSU Wire: LSU defense could be elite with improved safety play in 2025
