LSU football 2017: Projected Tigers depth chart

Defense

Notable Losses: The traditional strength of LSU, there’s a lot of talent now in the NFL that was in Baton Rouge on year ago. Jamal Adams is gone now, the leader of the secondary and the unit as a whole. Meanwhile, Tre’Davious White leaves a hole at cornerback. Duke Riley and Kendell Beckwith also leave the linebackers depleted from last year.

DE: Rashard Lawrence, senior
NT: Greg Gilmore, senior
DE: Christian LaCourture, senior

Obviously there is a ton of experience in the front for the 3-4 defense of the Tigers with three seniors here. While Greg Gilmore will replace Davon Godchaux, all three guys have seen plenty of time on the field and should be great here.

OLB: Arden Key, junior
ILB: Donnie Alexander, senior
ILB: Devin White, sophomore
OLB: Corey Thompson, senior

Thankfully, Arden Key has announced he’ll return to the Tigers in time for the 2017 season. The edge rushing outside linebacker promises to be one of the most fearsome defenders in the country and a top-five talent for the 2018 NFL Draft. Meanwhile, the remaining trio will face scrutiny given the talent they’re replacing, but all three have the chance to be playmakers.

CB: Donte Jackson, junior
SS: John Battle, senior
FS: Ed Paris, senior
CB: Kevin Toliver, junior
Nickel: Xavier Lewis, sophomore

Despite the big losses of Adams and White, the depth and talent of the LSU secondary is absolutely exceptional. This is a program establishing itself in terms of developing defensive backs, and these five guys will showcase that.

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Special Teams

K: Connor Culp, freshman (RS)
P: Josh Growden, sophomore (RS)
PR: Donte Jackson, junior
KR: Donte Jackson, junior

Pulling double duty at corner and returner, Jackson is well capable and could be a star for the LSU Tigers in 2017. While Growden is locked in, the young Culp will be key in the success of this team as he’ll have to prove himself and his moxie.