Ranking Which 2021 LSU Football Commits Will Have an Instant Impact With the Program Part 2
Several LSU 2021 commitments could make an impact a year from now, including each of the five players discussed within today’s article.
For the following five committed LSU prospects, making a major impact next fall holds serious meaning. Each of the five players possess the physical capabilities to make it happen, plus they play positions that will likely need incoming players to fill out the depth chart, at the very least.
10. Corey Kiner, RB, 5-foot-10, 205, Cincinnati (Ohio) Roger Bacon
With a loaded running back depth chart full of underclassmen, one might initially believe there’s little chance for a 2021 running back to make much of a contribution. Kiner provides not only the ability to tote the football, but also the unique style of running similar to last season’s dynamo Clyde Edwards-Helaire.
That quick burst, stiff arming, jitterbug that can play inside the tackles or take a swing pass and take a four yard gain and turn it into a 25-yard big play. LSU found a great fit for its running back needs with Kiner.
There’s also the chance that likely 2020 starting running back Chris Curry turns pro after the season. That would open up the running back competition. Curry is a special talent that will certainly get his chance to shine this season, and the Tigers will have room for multiple running backs to be a part of the running back rotation come 2021.
9. Landon Jackson, DE, 6-foot-5, 230, Texarkana (Texas) Pleasant Grove
When a long and powerful defensive end can also play linebacker during first and ten, as well as slide down to defensive tackle during obvious passing downs, that’s one talented football player. Jackson did just that as a junior, and it’s a major reason why he’s so highly thought of by college coaches and scouts.
Look for Jackson to catch the coaches eyes early because he’s capable of playing three different positions across the LSU front. Jackson has the versatility to play both defensive end positions, plus that defensive tackle spot, or three technique as it’s sometimes called. That offers the LSU coaching staff numerous options.
If injuries occur, Jackson could move to another position to help fill the void, plus he could inherit the same role within special packages such as nickel and dime. Jackson may not start next fall, but he’s capable of being a big contributor.
8. Saivion Jones, DE, 6-foot-5, 240, Saint James (La.) High School
A player quite similar to Jackson, Jones provides the physical attributes that a college defensive line coach would covet. He’s long, has powerful hips, solid upper body strength and a high motor. He possesses something else that cannot be taught.
Jones provides a natural run defender, despite being an edge rusher. If someone takes the time to study his highlights, Jones consistently holds the edge and makes plays versus sweeps, quarterbacks scrambling out of the pocket, and read-option plays. Considering many young college defensive linemen are fooled with these plays, college defensive coaches can be reluctant to play them. Jones provides something extra that many defensive ends do not.
He plays under control, at the point of attack, and makes good decisions as to how to pursue the ball carrier. That type of football IQ, combined with Jones’ natural physical gifts, make him a possible rare freshman impact player along the defensive line. Most freshmen defensive ends just play during obvious passing downs, whereas Jones could be more versatile.
He’s certainly capable of rushing the passer, and he’s equipped with a good stab move to get to the quarterback. That’s a staple move for a powerful defensive end, and he’s quite good at it. Overall, Jones is a combination of Jackson, as well as fellow LSU commitment Keanu Koht. It’s an incredible trio of defensive ends for one recruiting class.
7. Peyton Todd, P, 6-foot-5, 210, West Monroe (La.) High School
This is the only player not to make the SI All-American watch list, but he’s a specialist so that’s expected. LSU was quite happy to add Todd to its recruiting class early on, so obviously LSU is high on this young man. With Zach Von Rosenberg exhausting his eligibility at the conclusion of the 2020 season, Todd could be in line to make a run at the starting position next fall.
While it’s hard to say if LSU will add a graduate transfer and/or find a good walk-on punter, it’s not a real deep list of possible replacements for Von Rosenberg. Todd holds a chance to start for LSU as a true freshman, as he’s widely considered to be the top punter in the country for the 2021 cycle.
6. Deion Smith, WR, 6-foot-1, 175, Jackson (Miss.) Provine
Smith provides the explosive outside wide receiver threat that keeps defenses from stacking the box against the run. A fluid and natural runner from his first step off the line, Smith also provides the make-you-miss ability to garner huge chunks of yardage after the reception.
Those natural abilities will be highlighted even more if Smith can add some much needed upper body strength before he plays his first game in a LSU uniform. He’s still a lean athlete with room for additional weight. With another 15-pounds of muscle by the fall of 2021, Smith could provide the biggest impact of any LSU freshman.
Right now, the best way to slow down Smith would be being physical with him at the line of scrimmage and down the field. Once he’s stronger, there will be little that defensive backs can do against this talented Magnolia State product.
Five more players to discuss amongst the LSU 2021 commitments, and each of them offer elite talent that should make early impacts in Baton Rouge.
To view part one of this series, featuring commits Garrett Nussmeier, Anthony Hundley, Naquan Brown, Keanu Koht, Zavier Carter and Greg Penn III, click here.
