LSU Football Staffer Says Several Talented Tigers Are Poised to Take Major Leaps Forward in the 2025 Season
The 2025 college football season hasn’t even kicked off yet, but inside LSU’s football complex, the buzz is already palpable. A wave of optimism is swelling within the program, not just from fans or media, but directly from those on the inside. One key LSU football staffer recently offered a detailed glimpse into the progress being made by several Tigers expected to “take the next step” this fall. These are players who’ve flashed promise, shown consistency in the weight room and practice field, and are now on the brink of breaking out in a major way.
The staffer, who works closely with player development and has watched these young men grow through offseason workouts and film study, believes this upcoming campaign could feature multiple new stars emerging in Baton Rouge. This kind of development is crucial for a team with championship aspirations in a brutal SEC landscape. The Tigers finished last season with signs of promise, and with the right internal growth, they could reassert themselves as one of the conference’s true juggernauts.
Among the first names the staffer mentioned is sophomore linebacker Whit Weeks, whose combination of intelligence, sideline-to-sideline speed, and relentless motor make him a breakout candidate. Weeks showed flashes of greatness last year, stepping in with maturity beyond his years when injuries ravaged the linebacker corps. Now with a full offseason under his belt, Weeks has physically matured and developed a more advanced understanding of defensive coordinator Blake Baker’s scheme. According to the staffer, Weeks has been “living in the film room” and is “playing faster because he’s thinking less.” That’s a terrifying thought for SEC offenses.
Another name that’s drawing rave reviews is wide receiver Jalen Brown. The former blue-chip recruit didn’t see consistent snaps last season but has since refined his route running and added muscle to his wiry frame. With Malik Nabers and Brian Thomas Jr. now off to the NFL, the door is wide open for a new leader to emerge in the wide receiver room. Brown, with his elite top-end speed and improved hands, could be that guy. He’s reportedly built a strong connection with quarterback Garrett Nussmeier during spring practices, and that rapport could blossom into one of the conference’s most productive duos if things click.
Speaking of Nussmeier, his name came up quickly when discussing players set to take the next step. Though he’s no longer considered “up and coming” after several high-leverage appearances over the last two seasons, the 2025 campaign marks his first as LSU’s unquestioned starter. That change in status has clearly impacted Nussmeier’s demeanor and preparation, the staffer said. He’s now “the guy,” and he’s embraced that responsibility with the focus of a veteran. Known for his arm talent and moxie, Nussmeier has reportedly elevated his consistency and decision-making — two areas that previously kept him from fully grabbing hold of the starting job. With more weapons at his disposal and a more complete understanding of Mike Denbrock’s offense, the belief is that Nussmeier can blossom into one of the SEC’s top quarterbacks.
On the offensive line, a player who continues to generate internal excitement is sophomore tackle Zalance Heard. The massive lineman got a taste of action as a freshman and showed flashes of dominance in the run game. The former five-star has used the offseason to improve his pass protection skills and footwork, and the staffer said that Heard “looks like a different player” this spring. If his development continues on its current trajectory, Heard could lock down one of the tackle spots and give LSU the kind of elite edge protection that can anchor the entire offensive unit.
Running back Kaleb Jackson is another offensive player being touted as someone ready to explode. Jackson dealt with nagging injuries last year but still managed to put together a few impressive performances. Now fully healthy and trimmed down to his optimal playing weight, Jackson has looked electric in drills and scrimmages. The staffer noted that Jackson’s quick-twitch ability and burst through the hole have made him a nightmare for would-be tacklers during practice. With a retooled offensive line and a dual-threat quarterback under center, Jackson’s ability to punish defenses on both inside and outside runs could make him a centerpiece of the offense.
Defensively, cornerback Javien Toviano is perhaps the most intriguing candidate to make a significant leap. LSU’s secondary was inconsistent last year, but Toviano showed flashes that had the coaching staff excited about his future. Long, physical, and instinctive, Toviano has reportedly taken on more of a leadership role in the defensive backfield. The staffer pointed out that he’s been locking down top receivers in practice and displaying the kind of confidence that only comes from knowing you belong. If Toviano can put it all together this fall, he has the tools to become LSU’s next great cornerback — a lineage that includes NFL stars like Patrick Peterson, Tyrann Mathieu, and Derek Stingley Jr.
Another defensive back worth watching is Sage Ryan. A veteran presence who’s battled through injuries and inconsistency, Ryan has had an outstanding spring and looks poised to finally tap into the potential that made him a highly coveted recruit. The staffer said Ryan has “flipped a switch” and is playing with more urgency and focus. Whether he lines up at safety or nickel, Ryan’s experience and versatility make him a valuable asset in a defense that needs playmakers.
Up front on the defensive line, the Tigers are bullish on Jordan Jefferson, a physical presence in the middle who can clog lanes and create havoc. Jefferson was part of the rotation last year, but he’s since added strength and explosiveness, which the staff believes could turn him into a major disruptor this season. With Maason Smith and Mekhi Wingo off to the NFL, the defensive line has plenty of production to replace, and Jefferson is in prime position to help fill that void.
In the linebacker room, keep an eye on Christian Brathwaite. Though less heralded than some of his peers, Brathwaite has quietly impressed during spring ball and has earned praise for his instincts and physicality. The staffer noted that he “just finds the ball” and plays with a natural aggression that has earned him increasing reps with the first-team defense. In a position group where depth and development are key, Brathwaite could emerge as a surprise contributor.
While much attention will go to the stars and draft hopefuls already in the spotlight, it’s this next wave of talent that will determine LSU’s ceiling in 2025. Development is the lifeblood of any elite program, and the Tigers appear to have several players primed for that next level of growth. From blue-chip recruits now stepping into bigger roles, to under-the-radar players forcing their way into the rotation, the internal competition is fierce — and that’s exactly how Brian Kelly and his staff want it.
In the always-grueling SEC, depth and breakout performances can be the difference between a good season and a championship run. While the transfer portal and high school recruiting continue to shape headlines, the foundation of LSU’s 2025 aspirations may rest on the shoulders of those who’ve been in the building — grinding, learning, and now, ready to shine.
As the offseason continues and fall camp approaches, all eyes will be on Baton Rouge to see which of these promising Tigers truly take the next step. If even half of the players mentioned reach their potential, LSU won’t just be competitive — they’ll be a legitimate threat to make noise in the College Football Playoff race. The foundation has been laid, and now the Tigers are ready to roar.
