Highlights of LSU Football Spring Practice | 3.14.25

As spring practice for LSU Football continues, the excitement around the 2025 season builds with every drill, scrimmage, and competition. Under the leadership of head coach Brian Kelly, LSU has made impressive strides, establishing a program that consistently contends for championships. With the upcoming season on the horizon, spring practice serves as a vital opportunity for the Tigers to fine-tune their roster, evaluate their depth, and develop players in preparation for the intense battles they will face in the SEC.

On March 14th, 2025, LSU held one of its most highly anticipated spring practice sessions, showcasing the potential of key players, new faces, and emerging talent. This practice featured a series of drills, scrimmages, and team-building exercises, offering a glimpse into the direction the Tigers are heading as they gear up for the 2025 season. In this article, we’ll explore the highlights from that practice, breaking down key performances, positional battles, and significant moments that left an impression.

The Energy of Spring Practice: An Overview

As fans and analysts alike know, spring practice at LSU is an important time for both new recruits and seasoned veterans to prove themselves. The intensity and competitiveness of these practices set the stage for the fall, and on March 14th, the atmosphere at LSU’s practice facility was electric. With high stakes in mind, players pushed themselves to the limit, eager to leave their mark on the coaching staff and the LSU fanbase. It was clear from the start that this practice would be one to remember.

One of the most notable features of LSU’s spring camp under Brian Kelly has been the emphasis on discipline, technique, and execution. Spring practice is often a time for coaches to fine-tune their system, evaluate their personnel, and develop a deeper understanding of how their team will function in game situations. For the Tigers, March 14th was no different. The focus was on improving individual skills, fostering competition, and building chemistry among players, all while keeping an eye on LSU’s ultimate goals for the 2025 season.

Quarterback Play: The Battle for the Starting Job

Jayden Daniels: A Seasoned Veteran’s Leadership

At the top of the LSU quarterback depth chart is Jayden Daniels, the dual-threat quarterback who has already proven himself as a dynamic leader for the Tigers. Daniels is entering his second season with LSU after transferring from Arizona State and has shown significant improvement in his ability to command the offense. On March 14th, Daniels demonstrated his continued growth as a leader, showcasing both his arm strength and his ability to make plays with his legs.

During the practice session, Daniels connected with wide receivers on several deep passes, showing off his accuracy and the ability to throw on the run. His decision-making appeared sharp, and he looked more comfortable than ever operating LSU’s offensive scheme. One of the highlights of the practice came when Daniels executed a perfectly timed read-option play, taking advantage of the defense’s overcommitment and rushing for a long touchdown. His performance solidified his role as the starting quarterback, but it also highlighted just how dangerous he can be when he’s in rhythm.

Nussmeier and Howard: The Future of LSU’s Quarterback Room

Behind Daniels, the battle for the backup quarterback spot remains highly competitive. Garrett Nussmeier, a talented but less experienced signal-caller, has shown flashes of brilliance throughout the spring, and March 14th was no exception. Nussmeier displayed his strong arm and confidence, making several tight-window throws in full-team drills. While his accuracy can sometimes fluctuate, Nussmeier’s potential is undeniable, and his development will be crucial for LSU’s long-term quarterback depth.

Additionally, freshman quarterback Walker Howard continues to turn heads in spring practice. Despite being an early enrollee, Howard’s poise in the pocket and football IQ have been impressive. On March 14th, Howard had some standout moments, including a beautiful deep ball to a receiver in stride. Though he’s not yet in the running for the starting job, Howard’s growth during spring practice is something to keep an eye on, as he’s likely to be a key player for LSU in the future.

Wide Receivers: Explosive Playmakers Emerge

Kayshon Boutte: The Superstar Returns

One of the most significant storylines heading into the 2025 season is the return of Kayshon Boutte, the star wide receiver who was expected to declare for the NFL Draft after last season. However, after much speculation, Boutte made the decision to return for his junior season at LSU, and he has been one of the most consistent performers in spring practice. On March 14th, Boutte continued to show why he is one of the top wide receivers in college football.

Boutte was a consistent threat throughout the day, catching passes at all levels of the field. He displayed exceptional separation from defenders, using his speed, quickness, and route-running precision to consistently get open. One play in particular highlighted his explosive ability when he took a short pass from Jayden Daniels and turned it into a 50-yard gain, weaving through defenders and showcasing his elite agility.

The partnership between Boutte and Daniels continues to evolve, and their connection will be one of the most important elements of LSU’s offense in 2025. Boutte’s return provides LSU with a dynamic playmaker who can change the game in an instant.

New Faces: The Depth of LSU’s Receiving Corps

While Boutte is the undeniable star of the receiving corps, LSU has a wealth of depth at the position, and March 14th was an opportunity for some of the younger receivers to step into the spotlight. Several of LSU’s younger wide receivers impressed during the practice, including sophomore Malik Nabers and freshman Shelton Sampson.

Nabers, who showed promise as a freshman, has continued to grow as a reliable target for the Tigers. His route running and ability to gain separation from defenders were on full display during the practice, and he looks poised to take on a larger role in the offense in 2025. Nabers is a big, physical receiver with a knack for making difficult catches in tight coverage, and his development will be crucial for LSU’s passing attack.

Sampson, a highly touted freshman, showed why he was one of the top recruits in the country. His combination of size, speed, and ball skills was evident during the practice, and he made several impressive catches throughout the day. While he still has a lot to learn, Sampson’s natural talent makes him a player to watch as he continues to develop in LSU’s system.

Defensive Highlights: Dominant Plays and Key Position Battles

The Defensive Line: LSU’s Strength

LSU’s defensive line has long been a point of pride for the Tigers, and the 2025 season looks to be no different. On March 14th, LSU’s defensive line was disruptive throughout practice, constantly putting pressure on the quarterbacks and shutting down running lanes. Led by senior defensive tackle Maason Smith, the defensive front was relentless, showcasing both speed and strength in various drills.

Smith, who missed much of the 2024 season due to injury, looked explosive and dominant, using his quickness and power to win battles at the line of scrimmage. His ability to disrupt plays in the backfield will be a major asset for LSU’s defense, and his performance during spring practice suggests he’ll be one of the most important players on the team.

The edge rushers also stood out during March 14th’s practice. Players like BJ Ojulari and Ali Gaye consistently beat their blockers, showcasing their pass-rushing prowess. With their ability to collapse the pocket and put pressure on opposing quarterbacks, LSU’s defensive line will be a major factor in their defensive scheme.

Secondary: Young Talent Stepping Up

The LSU secondary is another area of significant focus during spring practice, as the Tigers look to replace some key players from the previous season. However, there are several young cornerbacks and safeties stepping up and proving their worth.

One of the most exciting developments has been the emergence of cornerback Denver Harris, who has been excellent during spring practice. Harris, a transfer from Texas A&M, is a physical, talented corner who has shown great promise in man-to-man coverage. His ability to lock down receivers and make plays on the ball was on full display during March 14th’s practice, and he looks poised to be a key contributor in the secondary.

In addition to Harris, safety Greg Brooks Jr. has impressed with his range and playmaking ability. Brooks has been a steady presence in the backfield, breaking up passes and showing strong instincts. As a senior, Brooks will be a vital leader in LSU’s secondary and will play a pivotal role in keeping the defense intact throughout the season.

Special Teams: Consistency and Competition

Special teams play is often an overlooked aspect of spring practice, but LSU’s special teams unit has been a focal point during these sessions. Kicker Damian Ramos has been consistent with his field goals, while punter Jay Bramblett has continued to improve his hang time and directional kicking. Additionally, the Tigers have been experimenting with different return men, including wide receivers and defensive backs, to create more explosive opportunities in the return game.

Looking Ahead to the 2025 Season

March 14th’s spring practice provided a valuable opportunity for LSU to evaluate its talent, develop its roster, and fine-tune its strategies for the 2025 season. With standout performances from key veterans like Jayden Daniels and Kayshon Boutte, as well as impressive contributions from younger players, LSU appears poised for another strong campaign in the SEC.

As spring practice continues, all eyes will be on the Tigers as they continue to refine their game plan and prepare for the upcoming season. With a mix of experienced leaders and exciting newcomers, LSU is building a team that could contend for SEC and national championships in the near future. The 2025 season is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in LSU’s storied football history.