Is Running Back Depth a concern for LSU?
- Shane Johnson
- Aug 11
- 2 min read
LSU’s running back room took a hit Friday when freshman JT Lindsey turned himself in to university police. An arrest warrant had been issued for two felony counts of accessory after the fact to second-degree murder. The former four-star recruit is accused of letting two suspects in a May shooting death stay in his dorm.
Lindsey has been suspended from all football activities until the case is resolved.
The Tigers came into 2025 hoping the run game would ease pressure on quarterback Garrett Nussmeier and open up the play-action attack. Lindsey was expected to get touches as one of just four scholarship backs. His absence stings, but LSU still has options.
Caden Durham
The unquestioned No. 1 back. As a true freshman, Durham piled up 1,013 total yards and eight touchdowns despite a lingering toe injury. He averaged 5.3 yards per carry and 3.48 yards after contact — both top-10 marks in the SEC.
Kaleb Jackson
A 230-pound hammer with legitimate top-end speed. Now a junior, Jackson brings a power element the other backs don’t, and he’s never shied away from running through defenders.
Harlem Berry
The No. 1 running back in the 2025 class. The five-star freshman has elite speed and playmaking ability as both a runner and receiver. Expect him on the field immediately — he’s a threat to score anytime he touches the ball.
Beyond those three, Brian Kelly and company will have to get creative.
Ju’Juan Johnson — A Louisiana high school legend with state records for total yards (14,451) and touchdowns (171). Johnson began his LSU career at defensive back, moved to running back last fall, and had been working at quarterback this spring. With depth thin, he could be splitting time again. Electric with the ball in his hands.
Jelani Watkins — A redshirt freshman wideout who might be the fastest player in college football. A two-sport athlete, Watkins tied for second in the 100m at the 2025 NCAA Track & Field Championships. He’s been taking some snaps out of the backfield in special packages during camp.
Zavion Thomas — Perhaps the biggest beneficiary of Lindsey’s suspension. The wide receiver has experience taking handoffs at LSU and Mississippi State. In 2024, he was the only Tiger to log touches via rush, reception, punt return, and kickoff return. Every touch is a big-play threat.
LSU still has top-end talent at running back, but Lindsey’s suspension strips away valuable depth. If injuries hit again, Kelly may have to lean on creative packages — and a few players who didn’t start camp as running backs.
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