The LSU Tigers are preparing for a crucial moment as the NCAA Transfer Portal opens, with head coach Lane Kiffin looking to reshape the roster for the upcoming 2026 season. Kiffin has already made an impact since his arrival, having recruited a strong 2026 Signing Class and successfully retaining key players from that group.
The impending Transfer Portal window is significant for Kiffin’s squad, especially with several top athletes announcing their intentions to explore transfer options. Kiffin expressed confidence in attracting talent to Baton Rouge, citing the prestige of the LSU brand and his proven track record in college football. “I have zero concern about the interest of players with that, because I know what the interest was of players nationally to come play for us where we were just at, and now when you put that with this stadium and with that logo, I mean, makes me want to get on the phone right now, but the portal is not open,” he stated during his introductory press conference.
One of the primary needs for LSU is at the quarterback position, with the program already connected to the top two quarterbacks planning to leave their respective schools once the portal opens on January 2.
The first is Sam Leavitt from Arizona State, who has recently declared his intention to transfer. Though his 2025 season was cut short by injury, he still managed to amass 1,628 passing yards and 10 touchdowns. His standout season in 2024 saw him lead Arizona State to the College Football Playoff with 2,885 yards and 24 touchdowns.
The second quarterback of interest is DJ Lagway from Florida. Lagway, listed at 6-foot-3 and 247 pounds, was a highly touted dual-threat quarterback in the 2024 recruiting cycle. Despite facing injuries throughout the 2025 season, he completed 63 percent of his passes for 16 touchdowns and 14 interceptions. As he considers his options in the transfer market, LSU is among the early frontrunners for his talents, alongside Baylor and Miami.
As Kiffin and his team prepare for the Transfer Portal, it is evident that they are aiming high, focusing on attracting top-tier quarterbacks to bolster their squad. This proactive approach not only reflects Kiffin’s ambition but also sets a promising tone for LSU as they look to build a competitive team for the 2026 season. The future is looking bright for the Tigers as they navigate this pivotal period in college football.