“I knew that this is where I was going to call home at the end of the day.” How’d you react if someone told you this, and less than eight months later, walked back on it like it never happened? Unfortunately, that’s a reality LSU’s Brian Kelly has become all too familiar with. As the team tries to build momentum after spring practices, a key loss has forced the HC into a critical phase of damage control, especially with star quarterback Garrett Nussmeier at the center of the program’s future plans.

The unpleasant situation reared its head earlier this week when three-star defensive lineman Dilan Battle, a major recruiting win tied directly to former defensive line coach Bo Davis, entered the NCAA Transfer Portal after a four-month stint at Baton Rouge. Notably, the 315-pound star, who became the 23rd player to leave LSU this transfer cycle, was an early enrollee after he signed with the program in December during the Early Signing Period. Talking about the same, Kelly had expressed immense pride when he said, “Dilan Battle is another player for us that you know fulfilled the defensive tackle position. He is heavyhanded, physical inside. Bo Davis really liked his ability to disrupt at the defensive tackle position.”

Safe to say that the challenge has most definitely intensified for Kelly. But don’t worry. As per reports, the Tigers have added Bernard Gooden from South Florida. His visit to campus on Thursday evening signaled LSU’s attempt to shore up a position critical to its defense, especially as Kyle Williams takes over as the new defensive line coach. Gooden’s physical profile, though different from the outgoing Battle, aligns with LSU’s shift towards quicker, more forceful interior players who can generate pressure. But what does Gooden bring to the table?

“So you look at a guy like Bernard Gooden, who started 11 of the 13 games this past year at South Florida. He’s been around college football for four years now, going into his fifth year,” the ‘After Further Review: LSU’ show’s Matt Moscona said. Notably, the player finished with 35 tackles, 1.5 sacks, and 10 tackles for loss last season.

Interestingly, Battle’s move comes just two months after Bo Davis left to serve as the defensive line coach for the New Orleans Saints. With the duo having a close relationship, and Davis being heavily involved in Battle’s recruitment, no wonder a departure was expected. In fact, back in August last year, the player had even said, “It’s really about just going there to compete and to play early, that was one of the main things. And coach Bo [Davis] for sure, our relationship, we’ve got a good bond, so that played a major part of me committing too.” 

Now, add to that the fact that Dilan would properly not get early playing time—with Dominick McKinley and Ahmad Breaux returning for their sophomore campaigns, alongside Texas transfer Sydir Mitchell—and the picture is crystal clear. In simple words: Battle realized the reasons why he came under Kelly’s tutelage would perhaps not get fulfilled.

For Kelly, however, the deeper concern isn’t just plugging holes—it’s protecting the bigger picture. Every unexpected departure, especially one connected to coaching changes, fuels skepticism among players like Garrett Nussmeier who are counting on program stability.

The head coach must send a clear message that LSU remains fully in control of its trajectory or risk losing much more than a defensive lineman.

Growing portal pressure around Garrett Nussmeier

LSU’s roster issues don’t stop at the defensive line. According to a recent report, Kelly is under increasing pressure to keep Garrett Nussmeier committed to LSU amid growing competition in the portal. Nussmeier, who threw for 4,052 yards last season, is a vital piece of LSU’s future, but his commitment isn’t guaranteed. The portal remains a looming threat, especially as other schools look to poach top talent, and Nussmeier could be one of them if things don’t shake out as planned.

The ongoing pursuit of Michael Van Buren Jr., a top quarterback prospect from Oregon complicates Kelly’s position. LSU has shown serious interest, but it creates a delicate balancing act. Bringing in another highly touted quarterback could energize the depth chart—or unsettle Nussmeier if it appears the staff is hedging bets. Managing this dynamic carefully is critical, especially after already dealing with major transfer losses like Battle on defense.

Ultimately, the 2025 season could define Kelly’s tenure at LSU—and the pressure is mounting fast. Keeping Nussmeier happy, ensuring the defensive line holds together, and navigating a fierce portal environment all at once is no small task. For Brian Kelly, the next few months will be about proving he can adapt, respond, and lead LSU through the volatility that defines today’s college football landscape.