Brian Kelly Weighs In as LSU Football Seeks the Right Mix on Offensive Line
Baton Rouge, LA – April 20, 2025 — As LSU football ramps up spring preparations, head coach Brian Kelly is making it clear that one of the program’s top priorities is finding the perfect combination along the offensive line.
With several returning players, a wave of new talent, and a few position battles heating up, Kelly and his staff are focused on evaluating every possibility to identify the ideal starting five that can anchor the Tigers’ offense this fall.
“It’s a Process,” Says Kelly
During a recent media availability, Kelly emphasized that the offensive line rotation remains very much in flux—and that’s by design.
“We’re not rushing anything,” Kelly said. “This time of year is about experimenting, seeing who fits where, and who rises when the competition gets tough. We’re looking for continuity, toughness, and leadership up front.”
Last season, LSU’s offensive line showed flashes of dominance but struggled with consistency, especially in key SEC matchups. Injuries and shifting lineups often disrupted rhythm and protection schemes. Heading into 2025, building a reliable unit is essential—especially with a new quarterback expected to take over under center.
Veteran Anchors, Young Talent
The Tigers return several experienced linemen, including Will Campbell and Emery Jones, who are expected to serve as the foundation of the line. Both tackles have earned praise for their physicality and football IQ and will likely be locked into starting roles.
On the interior, however, competition is wide open. Kelly noted that several younger players and transfers are making strong cases to earn starting spots. Names like Zalance Heard, DJ Chester, and Lance Heard have come up repeatedly as rising contributors during spring practices.
“We’ve got a good mix of experience and raw ability,” Kelly said. “Now it’s about finding chemistry.”
Transfers and Depth Key to Long-Term Success
LSU has also dipped into the transfer portal to bolster depth and address specific needs. While those additions are still adjusting to the Tigers’ system, Kelly remains confident they’ll play a major role once the season begins.
“We’ve brought in guys who know what it means to compete in the trenches,” he said. “It’s not just about starters—it’s about building a group that can rotate, stay healthy, and play with consistency.”
Time on Their Side
With months to go before LSU kicks off the 2025 season, Kelly is focused on gradual development rather than quick fixes. He emphasized that the rotation will remain fluid throughout spring and into fall camp, allowing players to earn their spots through performance and persistence.
“This is the time to challenge them,” Kelly added. “We’re going to find the right five—because we have to. That’s where championship teams start: in the trenches.”
Outlook
As the Tigers continue their offseason build, all eyes remain on how the offensive line comes together. With a high-powered offense and SEC title hopes on the line, getting the right combination up front will be crucial for LSU’s success.
For now, the competition rages on—and Brian Kelly wouldn’t have it any other way.
