Preview of LSU Football’s Spring Camp: Projecting the Offense Depth Chart
As the LSU Tigers gear up for the 2025 football season, anticipation surrounds the offensive unit’s potential. With a blend of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers, the Tigers aim to build on past performances and make a significant impact in the upcoming season. Here’s an in-depth look at the projected offensive depth chart for LSU’s Spring Camp.
Quarterback
Starter: Garrett Nussmeier (Redshirt Junior)
Garrett Nussmeier returns as the Tigers’ starting quarterback, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a strong arm. In the 2024 season, Nussmeier threw for 4,024 yards, positioning himself within reach of LSU’s all-time passing record. His leadership and poise under pressure make him a pivotal figure in the Tigers’ offense.
Backup: Michael Van Buren Jr. (Sophomore Transfer)
Joining LSU from Mississippi State, Michael Van Buren Jr. adds depth to the quarterback position. As a freshman, he completed 140 of 256 passes for 1,886 yards, 11 touchdowns, and seven interceptions. Van Buren’s dual-threat capability provides the Tigers with a versatile option behind center.
Running Back
Starter: Caden Durham (Sophomore)
Caden Durham emerged as a standout performer in his freshman year, leading the team in rushing—a feat not achieved by a true freshman since Leonard Fournette in 2014. Durham’s explosive speed and agility make him a dynamic presence in the backfield.
Backups: Kaleb Jackson (Junior), Trey Holly (Sophomore), Harlem Berry (Freshman)
Kaleb Jackson and Trey Holly provide valuable experience and depth. Jackson showed promise in his limited appearances, while Holly’s record-setting high school career positions him as a potential breakout player. Freshman Harlem Berry, an early enrollee with 4.37-second 40-yard dash speed, adds a new dimension to the running game.
Wide Receiver
Starters: Nic Anderson (Redshirt Sophomore Transfer), Barion Brown (Junior Transfer), Aaron Anderson (Junior)
The wide receiver corps is bolstered by the additions of Nic Anderson and Barion Brown. Anderson set Oklahoma’s freshman record with 10 touchdown receptions in 2023, while Brown’s exceptional speed and return skills make him a versatile threat. Returning standout Aaron Anderson led the team with 61 catches for 875 yards and five touchdowns last season, showcasing his reliability and playmaking ability.
Backups: Chris Hilton (Junior), Kyle Parker (Sophomore), Zavion Thomas (Senior)
Chris Hilton’s athleticism and strong bowl game performance position him as a key contributor. Kyle Parker, despite an injury-plagued 2024 season, has shown flashes of brilliance, and Zavion Thomas brings experience and special teams prowess to the unit.
Tight End
Starter: Bauer Sharp (Senior Transfer)
Transferring from Oklahoma, Bauer Sharp brings a blend of blocking and receiving skills to the tight end position. His experience and versatility are expected to fill the void left by Mason Taylor’s departure to the NFL.
Backups: Donovan Green (Junior Transfer), Trey’Dez Green (Sophomore), J.D. LaFleur (Freshman)
Donovan Green, a Texas A&M transfer, is known for his blocking prowess, while Trey’Dez Green’s impressive bowl game performance highlights his receiving potential. Freshman J.D. LaFleur, son of former All-American David LaFleur, adds legacy and talent to the position.
Offensive Line
Offensive Tackles: Josh Thompson (Senior Transfer), Tyree Adams (Sophomore)
Josh Thompson’s arrival from Northwestern adds experience and stability to the offensive line, having played 31 games with 21 starts without allowing a sack in his last 18 games. Tyree Adams, with his size and potential, is expected to secure the left tackle spot.
Guards: Paul Mubenga (Sophomore), D.J. Chester (Junior)
Paul Mubenga’s impressive freshman year, where he played in eight games without allowing a sack, positions him as a reliable guard. D.J. Chester’s transition from center to right guard is anticipated to strengthen the interior line.
Center: Braelin Moore (Junior Transfer)
Transferring from Virginia Tech, Braelin Moore is expected to anchor the offensive line with his physicality and quick hands, drawing comparisons to former LSU standout Lloyd Cushenberry.
