As the transfer portal’s deadline loomed, LSU’s pursuit of defensive tackles reached a pivotal moment with the visit of highly sought-after prospect Damonic Williams. Williams, hailing from TCU, embarked on a tour of LSU’s campus alongside defensive line coach Bo Davis. Cordell Landers shared glimpses of the visit on Instagram, showcasing Williams and his family exploring the university grounds, including encounters with the iconic Mike the Tiger.
Williams, a standout junior, had previously explored options at Texas, Oklahoma, and Missouri before arriving at LSU as part of his decision-making process for his next collegiate destination.
Simultaneously, LSU had its sights set on another defensive tackle prospect, Simeon Barrow from Michigan State, who was reported to be touring Miami during this critical period. The competition for defensive tackles across the nation has been fierce this spring, evidenced by Barrow’s exploration of various options before reaching a decision expected by week’s end.
With the transfer portal deadline closing for undergraduates at midnight Tuesday (with an additional day for graduate students), LSU remained vigilant in its pursuit of reinforcements for its defensive line. The Tigers, currently with 82 scholarship players, are three below the 85-player limit after seven players entered the transfer portal, with the possibility of further adjustments before the start of preseason camp due to injuries.
The closure of the transfer portal marked a crucial juncture for teams finalizing their rosters. While LSU managed to retain its projected two-deep roster from the conclusion of spring practice, there was a concerted effort to bolster positions lacking in experience and depth. Earlier in the spring, LSU secured the commitment of Wisconsin sixth-year senior Gio Paez and subsequently focused on recruiting Williams and Barrow, both of whom visited the campus. However, Indiana transfer Philip Blidi opted for Auburn over LSU.
Barrow, a consistent performer with All-Big Ten honorable mentions in the past two seasons, boasts an impressive track record of 110 tackles, 18½ tackles for loss, 10½ sacks, and 11 hurries over 34 games. Meanwhile, Williams, with 27 consecutive starts for TCU, brings a wealth of experience, including an appearance in the national championship game and accolades as a freshman All-American and honorable mention All-Big 12 player.
Last Trip with the fam. Headed to @LSUfootball @DamonicWilliams @JWill5_2 pic.twitter.com/MBh7Eulomt
— CoachCordell Landers (@TheRBCoach) April 29, 2024
In the event that LSU fails to secure commitments from either prospect, or even if it lands just one, the team will need to explore alternative options. Already, LSU has extended a scholarship offer to Kent State transfer CJ West, while remaining attentive to emerging talents such as Adin Huntington from UL-Monroe and Terrell Allen from Tennessee State.
For now, LSU remains focused on securing its top targets, leveraging available roster space and the allure of its campus to strengthen its defensive line for the upcoming season.
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