Spring football at LSU is nearly complete, with Brian Kelly and his staff hard at work shaping what they hope will be the most resilient team in the SEC. Garrett Nussmeier is expected to take over as quarterback, steering an offense that’s subtly evolving. However, the real energy this offseason is coming from the defense—particularly the secondary.
LSU’s defensive back unit is getting a complete overhaul, led by returning coach Corey Raymond, known for his success with defensive backs. The Tigers have added serious talent through transfers and the 2025 signing class. Two standout additions, Mansoor Delane and Ja’Keem Jackson, are already making waves. But the most talked-about name is DJ Pickett—a five-star freshman cornerback who’s impressed with his elite combination of size (6-foot-4), speed, and football instincts.
#LSU signed the No. 1 cornerback in America last December: DJ Pickett.
Now, the early-enrollee is quickly making noise in Baton Rouge during Spring Camp.
Pickett has pieced together a strong start with multiple big days through five practices.
(🎥: @LSUfootball) pic.twitter.com/WJemlJICxZ
— Zack Nagy (@znagy20) March 15, 2025
Pickett, who already commands attention with his $634,000 NIL valuation, has drawn significant praise during spring practices. According to LSU insiders, he’s standing out physically, having gained muscle mass while maintaining speed and agility. He’s reportedly gone toe-to-toe with experienced receivers and come out on top more often than not. As LSU prepares to open their season against Clemson, there’s growing speculation that Pickett could earn a starting role in that high-stakes game.
What makes Pickett’s rise even more compelling is the context. LSU is striving to reclaim its “DBU” (Defensive Back University) reputation. Corey Raymond is re-establishing the swagger that once defined the Tigers’ secondary. Defensive coordinator Blake Baker has openly praised the trio of Pickett, Delane, and Jackson, saying they’ve exceeded expectations in both understanding the system and athletic performance. But even among them, Pickett is emerging as the potential breakout star.
Coaches and analysts alike are buzzing about Pickett’s commitment and growth. He’s not just relying on natural ability—he’s working hard behind the scenes, even using virtual reality tools to sharpen his game. Baker noted a huge leap in Pickett’s performance from bowl practices to now, calling him “a different animal.”
As LSU eyes a College Football Playoff berth in the newly expanded format, the margin for error remains thin. Some believe LSU could follow a path similar to last year’s Tennessee team—dangerous and talented, but vulnerable without a conference title. Coach Kelly may not be fixated on winning the SEC; his priority appears to be getting to the playoff healthy and peaking at the right time.
Ultimately, the buzz around DJ Pickett is more than just hype—it reflects the urgent need for LSU to have impact players who can shift the course of their season. And if Pickett keeps up this level of play, he might just be that game-changer.