LSU’s Roster Always Has Talent. Who Could Become A Draft Prospect In 2018?
Last week we took a look at the Clemson Tigers. This week we will look at a different group of Tigers, LSU.
LSU has consistently had one of the most talented rosters in the country. The last few seasons however they haven’t live up to their expectations. Because of this they let go former head coach Les Miles last season and gave the job to Ed Orgeron.
After last season the Tigers had eight players selected in the draft. Luckily they have talent left for Orgeron to work with this season.
Meet the Prospects:
Replacing the two players from their secondary who ended up being first round picks (Jamal Adams and Tre’Davious White) will be a challenge. Their other first round pick, Leonard Fournette, won’t be as much of a challenge. Here are some players from LSU to keep an eye on for next years draft:
Running Back Derrius Guice, 5’11” 220, Junior:
Leonard Fournette was one of the best running backs in college football last season. However when he missed time due to injuries, Guice stepped in and performed just as well, if not better, than Fournette did when healthy. He had 183 carries last season and turned them into 1,387 yards (7.6 yards per carry) and 15 touchdowns.
He’s a physical runner who also has speed and a tremendous ability to make cuts. This season Guice should see a larger workload. If he can be even close to as productive as he was in 2016 he will likely go to the NFL.
Outside Linebacker/ Defensive End Arden Key, 6’6” 238, Junior:
Key had a really strong season last year as a pass rusher. In 11 games he logged 12 sacks and 14.5 tackles for loss.
During the offseason Key took a leave of absence from the LSU football team and missed spring drills. Little is known as to why he had to take time off from football other than it was for personal reasons. He has already rejoined the team so there is little reason for this to be a concern moving forward.
Also Key has reportedly added bulk this offseason. So he will likely weigh more than the 238 lbs he’s currently listed, which would help his stock. He’s one of the top pass rushers in college football so NFL teams will interested in him when the season is over.
Center Will Clapp, 6’5” 309, Junior:
After starting at guard his first two seasons at LSU, Clapp will get a chance to play center this season. LSU has one of the top centers in the country last year in Ethan Pocic so Clapp will have big shoes to fill.
On top of the position switch Clapp is also recovering from offseason shoulder surgery that caused him to miss spring practices. He is expected to be ready for the start of the season however.
Clapp has been a solid player so far in his career. If he proves to be able to play center at a high level he will likely make the jump to the pros after his junior year is complete.
Offensive Tackle Toby Weathersby, 6’5” 302, Junior:
Weathersby is another LSU offensive lineman who missed spring practices while recovering from an injury. In Weatherby’s case it was a knee surgery.
He plays right tackle. He hasn’t made many starts yet but the expectations for him are high. If he performs well there’s a chance he foregoes his senior year and heads to the draft early.
Offensive Guard Maea Teuhema, 6’5” 315, Junior:
Although Teuhema’s natural position is left guard, he has been asked to play many positions along to offensive line. In fact he’s played every position except for center.
Hopefully Teuhema will stick at left guard this season to be able to show off what he can do. Teams will like the fact that they can move him around if they need too though.
Cornerback Donte Jackson, 5’11” 173, Junior:
LSU is known for producing quality NFL defensive backs. Jackson, although he’s undersized, could be next in line.
He’s expected to step up this year after Tre’Davious White went pro after last season. Jackson is best known for his speed. He is also on LSU’s track team and is considered by many to be the fastest player in college football.
When you mix Jackson’s speed with the fact that he’s expected to take over White’s spot as the number one corner you get a player that NFL teams will be keeping a close eye on.
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