As LSU’s football program continues to build its reputation under head coach Brian Kelly, the Tigers’ 2024 recruiting class is poised to bring in several fresh faces who could make an immediate impact. With a deep roster and a desire to compete at the highest level, LSU fans are eagerly awaiting the debut of these talented signees. Here are three players who could shake up LSU’s roster right away:
### 1. **Jaiden Osbury – Linebacker (Baton Rouge, LA)**
One of the most highly anticipated signings for LSU is Jaiden Osbury, a dynamic linebacker from Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Osbury’s commitment to the Tigers is a significant boost for their defense, and his presence could provide an immediate upgrade to the linebacker corps. A consensus four-star recruit, Osbury is known for his football IQ, speed, and ability to cover ground quickly. Standing at 6’1″ and 210 pounds, he possesses the size and athleticism to contribute as a true freshman.
Osbury is expected to compete for a starting role right away due to his versatility and playmaking ability. He excels in both run defense and pass coverage, making him a valuable asset in today’s fast-paced, high-scoring college football environment. LSU’s defense, which showed flashes of brilliance but also inconsistencies last season, will rely on players like Osbury to help elevate the unit’s overall performance. His ability to read plays and his leadership on the field could allow him to play significant snaps early in the season.
### 2. **Shelton Sampson Jr. – Wide Receiver (Baton Rouge, LA)**
Another local product who could make a significant impact immediately is wide receiver Shelton Sampson Jr. Standing 6’4″ and possessing elite speed, Sampson is one of the top wide receiver prospects in the nation. His physical attributes and playmaking ability make him a matchup nightmare for opposing defenders. Sampson’s combination of size, speed, and route-running ability allows him to dominate both deep routes and short-yardage situations.
LSU’s wide receiver room is deep but also looking for someone to step up as a true playmaker. Kayshon Boutte, a former star for the Tigers, left for the NFL, leaving a vacancy for a top receiver to emerge. While LSU has several talented returning wideouts, Sampson’s exceptional skills could quickly earn him significant playing time. With his size and athleticism, he can contribute as an outside receiver, stretching the field and providing quarterback Jayden Daniels with a big-play target.
### 3. **Ricky Collins – Quarterback (Baton Rouge, LA)**
The quarterback position is always under the spotlight, and LSU’s 2024 signee Ricky Collins could make waves early in his career. A dual-threat quarterback, Collins has the ability to make plays both with his arm and his legs. While Jayden Daniels returns as the starter for LSU in 2024, Collins’ athleticism and talent could push him into the conversation for meaningful snaps, especially in the event of an injury or if the Tigers look to develop a strong backup.
Collins stands 6’2″ and has a powerful arm combined with impressive mobility. His ability to extend plays with his legs and his poise in the pocket make him an exciting prospect for the future of LSU’s offense. While he may not start immediately, Collins’ skill set gives him the potential to play a role in short-yardage or situational plays, helping keep defenses off balance. Additionally, with his high ceiling, it wouldn’t be surprising to see Collins earn more playing time if Daniels faces any setbacks or if LSU looks to develop him for a starting role in the future.
### Conclusion
LSU’s 2024 recruiting class is stacked with talent, and Jaiden Osbury, Shelton Sampson Jr., and Ricky Collins stand out as players who could make an immediate impact. Whether it’s Osbury anchoring the linebacker corps, Sampson stretching the field as a top receiver, or Collins providing depth and future potential at quarterback, these signees have the potential to shake up LSU’s roster and contribute to the team’s success from day one. Fans can expect these players to play a pivotal role in shaping the Tigers’ future as they look to build on the success of the 2023 season.