LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier had a mixed 2024 season. While he posted impressive numbers—4,052 passing yards and 29 touchdowns—his performances in critical games left much to be desired. In losses to Alabama and Texas A&M, he threw five interceptions, failing to spark a comeback in either game. Despite finishing the season with a 44-31 win over Baylor in the Texas Bowl, the Tigers’ inability to make the College Football Playoff once again raised concerns about both Nussmeier and head coach Brian Kelly.
As LSU prepares for the 2025 season, Nussmeier carries high expectations, with many hoping he can replicate the success of Joe Burrow. However, his performance last season showed he wasn’t fully settled into his role as the team’s leader. Whether he can make the necessary improvements in his final year at Baton Rouge will depend largely on the support from his offensive teammates.
Make a play @BauerSharp15 pic.twitter.com/kJNEsN2cMB
— LSU Football (@LSUfootball) March 17, 2025
The Tigers face some challenges in that regard. Key playmakers from 2024, including wide receiver Kyren Lacy and tight end Mason Taylor, are gone. Lacy, who had 866 receiving yards on 58 receptions, declared for the NFL Draft but has since been dealing with legal issues related to a hit-and-run case. Another receiver, CJ Daniels, transferred to Miami. Taylor, a crucial target at tight end, also left for the draft. In total, LSU lost over 1,900 receiving yards from last season.
In response, Brian Kelly made a significant addition to the offense by bringing in tight end Bauer Sharp. After playing three seasons at Southeastern Louisiana, Sharp transferred to Oklahoma for the 2024 season, where he recorded 42 receptions for 324 yards and two touchdowns. Now, LSU is looking to maximize his potential and fill the gaps in their offense.
Instead of hosting a traditional spring game, LSU opted for an open practice, which has already showcased Sharp’s ability. During a one-on-one drill, Sharp made a spectacular one-handed catch, which was shared on LSU’s official social media and caught the attention of national analysts. One analyst highlighted Sharp’s imposing size at 6-foot-5, 250 pounds, and emphasized the challenge he and fellow tight end Trey’Dez Green (6-foot-7) would pose to opposing red-zone defenses.
Sharp has been taking reps with both the first and second teams, particularly in LSU’s 12-personnel offensive sets, where two tight ends are used. His strong presence in practice suggests he could play a major role in the offense this season.
With Mason Taylor’s departure and the unexpected transfer of Ka’Morreun Pimpton, LSU’s tight end position was an area of concern. However, Sharp appears to be a promising solution, providing Nussmeier with a reliable target who can also contribute to the run game. Analysts believe his ability as a blocker and receiver will be key to LSU’s offensive success.
Head coach Brian Kelly has expressed confidence in Sharp, emphasizing his versatility and ability to contribute in both the passing and running game. Offensive coordinator Joe Sloan will be responsible for finding the best ways to utilize Sharp’s skill set. Given LSU’s limited depth at tight end, Sharp has a clear path to significant playing time. If properly coached and utilized, he could become a crucial asset for Nussmeier and the Tigers’ offense in 2025.