LSU Tigers head coach Brian Kelly recently discussed his team’s strategy for navigating the changing landscape of college football. With the introduction of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) and the transfer portal, acquiring talent has become a whole new process.
Kelly emphasized that he and his coaching staff are taking a different approach compared to most teams. Rather than solely focusing on players seeking lucrative NIL deals, Kelly is prioritizing those who are football-oriented. However, it’s unlikely that Kelly is completely against NIL, considering his position as the head coach of a prominent SEC team like LSU.
.@JacquesDoucet : Where are you right now w/the defensive line recruiting?
Brian Kelly: "It's hasn't fared very well quite frankly because we are selling something a little bit differently…
We are not in the market of buying players."
LSU HC sends a STRONG message via @WAFB pic.twitter.com/HO8zfwdRsZ
— Carter Bryant (@PowerHourLSU) May 7, 2024
Kelly admitted that his approach has presented challenges, particularly in acquiring a defensive lineman through the transfer portal. Despite actively searching for one, the available players didn’t align with what Kelly and his staff were looking for.
The Tigers managed to sign one defensive lineman this offseason, Gio Paez from Wisconsin, rated as a three-star prospect by On3.
Rhule on NIL. He lays it out there and says “There are teams that we’ll face [OSU] that have spent 20-25 million on their roster. If you want us to finish first, then we should be first in everything-including NIL”. 🔥👊😍 pic.twitter.com/ZIRZtiL7aM
— Jim in MN (@HuskersMN) April 21, 2024
While LSU remains committed to their principles, other teams are aggressively utilizing NIL to attract players. Ohio State, for instance, reportedly spent millions on NIL deals this offseason, with former Alabama cornerback Caleb Downs being one of their notable acquisitions.