As the offseason approaches, LSU football is making an aggressive push to bolster its roster via the NCAA Transfer Portal, with one of the program’s primary targets being Northwestern offensive lineman Josh Thompson. The 6-foot-5, 301-pound Thompson has emerged as a highly coveted player after an impressive tenure with the Wildcats, earning recognition as one of the Big Ten’s top offensive linemen. According to Pro Football Focus, Thompson was rated as the No. 2 offensive lineman in the conference, and his performance has drawn the attention of several prominent programs.
LSU, alongside powerhouses such as Michigan, Michigan State, Ohio State, and Tennessee, has already reached out to Thompson, hoping to add him to its offensive line for the 2025 season. With LSU’s offensive line set to lose three starters, including star left tackle Will Campbell to the 2025 NFL Draft, depth in the trenches will be a major focus for head coach Brian Kelly and the Tigers’ staff. LSU is also hoping to retain right tackle Emery Jones for another season to help anchor the line.
Thompson, who has been a cornerstone for Northwestern’s offensive line, is expected to be at the top of many teams’ Big Boards in the Transfer Portal. A Michigan native, Thompson could be especially swayed by the interest from his home-state Wolverines, but LSU is undoubtedly one of the teams making a strong case for his services.
Alongside Thompson, LSU is also keeping an eye on another high-profile transfer, Florida cornerback Ja’Keem Jackson. Jackson, a former top-3 cornerback in the 2023 recruiting class, entered the Transfer Portal this week, and LSU is reportedly in the mix for his talents. The Tigers could see significant turnover in their defensive backfield, making Jackson an intriguing potential addition. LSU’s defensive backs coach, Robert Steeples, has connections to Jackson from his time at Florida, which could give LSU an edge in his recruitment.
As the Transfer Portal officially opens on December 9, LSU’s aggressive approach is set to continue, with key positions such as cornerback, wide receiver, and offensive line likely to see new additions. With several scholarships opening up due to players announcing their intention to enter the portal, LSU will be looking to secure immediate-impact players to strengthen their roster for the 2025 season.
More LSU Football News:
- LSU Football: Potential Impact Players in the 2025 Recruiting Class
- What LSU’s 2024 Transfer Portal Strategy Means for the Program’s Future
- LSU Football: Key Positions of Need for the 2025 Season
