Lane Kiffin and the LSU Tigers find themselves at a crucial crossroads this January as they navigate important roster decisions amidst a pivotal month for the program. The NCAA Transfer Portal is set to open on January 2, providing a limited two-week window for player movements while also emphasizing the significance of retaining key talent.
This offseason marks a fresh start for the Tigers’ offense, but preserving a solid defensive core is equally essential. Defensive coordinator Blake Baker’s return has been a significant story, as he played a noteworthy role in elevating the team’s defensive performance during the 2025 season. Under his guidance, LSU ranked among the Top 25 in total defense, securing 21 turnovers and holding opponents to an average of 319.7 yards and 18.3 points per game—improvements from the previous season.
Baker’s commitment to LSU was reaffirmed when he opted out of considering other job opportunities, notably with Tulane and Memphis, as he prepares for the 2026 season. His primary focus now shifts to retaining standout linebacker Whit Weeks, who is at a crossroads in his career following a challenging junior season marked by an ankle injury.
Weeks emerged as a force on the field during his sophomore year, amassing 125 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, and 3.5 sacks. However, his 2025 campaign was cut short, resulting in only eight games played. As he reflects on his options—either returning for another season or declaring for the NFL Draft—Weeks acknowledges the weight of this decision on his future.
During a recent interview, Kiffin underscored Weeks’ importance to the team’s defensive strategy, alluding to the mutual trust and respect established between the linebacker and Baker. “It’s hard not to bring energy when the boss man is bringing it,” Weeks stated, clearly valuing the guidance Baker brings to the Tigers.
As the team gears up for the impending transfer portal period, the sentiment around Baton Rouge is one of hope and opportunity. With Baker’s proven track record and Kiffin’s leadership, the LSU Tigers are setting the stage for a potentially transformative season ahead. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how both Weeks’ decision and the overall roster adjustments will shape the future of LSU football.