BREAKING: Starting LSU Football Linebacker Declares for the 2025 NFL Draft
The LSU Tigers are set to bid farewell to several key contributors as they prepare for a revamped defense in the 2025 season under head coach Brian Kelly. With fresh talent arriving via the transfer portal and the 2025 signing class, LSU’s roster will feature a mix of newcomers and young players stepping up to fill significant gaps left by departing veterans.
Among the most notable departures, offensive tackle Will Campbell, offensive lineman Emery Jones, and tight end Mason Taylor announced their decisions to forgo their remaining college eligibility and declare for the 2025 NFL Draft last month. These players will join a group of seniors preparing to showcase their skills at LSU’s Pro Day in March, aiming to impress NFL scouts.
On Sunday, the list of departures grew as starting linebacker Greg Penn III officially announced his declaration for the NFL Draft. Penn expressed his gratitude in a heartfelt message to the LSU community:
“First, I want to thank God for giving me the strength, talent, and opportunity to live out my dream of playing football,” Penn wrote. “To my teammates and coaches at LSU, thank you for believing in me and helping me grow both on and off the field. It’s been a privilege and honor to represent this program. Tiger Nation, thank you for your endless support—you’ve made every moment unforgettable. I fell in love with the state of Louisiana because of you guys.
“To my family, friends, and everyone who’s been in my corner, your support and encouragement have carried me through it all. I’m grateful for every moment on this journey and excited for what’s ahead. With that being said, I’m excited to announce that I am declaring for the 2025 NFL Draft.”
Standing at 6-foot-2 and 234 pounds, Penn concludes his LSU career with impressive stats over 50 games, including 264 total tackles, 17.5 tackles for loss, 5.5 sacks, three forced fumbles, and two interceptions. His departure marks the end of a successful collegiate tenure and opens the door for the next chapter in his football career.
Other Notable Senior Departures:
Kyren Lacy: Wide Receiver
The 6-foot-2, 215-pound wideout is regarded as one of the top prospects for the 2025 NFL Draft, ranked No. 6 at his position by ESPN and No. 13 by CBS Sports.
Lacy joined LSU after transferring from UL-Lafayette, where he spent two seasons under Billy Napier. Following Napier’s departure to Florida, Lacy entered the transfer portal and landed in Baton Rouge.
Over his LSU career, Lacy demonstrated consistent growth, culminating in a standout senior season. In his final year, he led the Tigers with 58 receptions for 866 yards and nine touchdowns. Lacy concluded his college career with 112 catches for 1,692 yards and 16 touchdowns across 39 games, starting in 24 of them.
Josh Williams: Running Back
Josh Williams capped off his six-year tenure with LSU in the Texas Bowl against Baylor, playing his final game in his hometown of Houston.
Reflecting on his time with the Tigers, Williams expressed deep gratitude:
“I chose to play in the bowl game because it’s the last time I’ll ever be able to play as an LSU Tiger, and I want to go out with a bang. LSU means so much to me it’s almost indescribable… From a National Championship to COVID, to finally playing on offense, it’s forever LSU for me, and I love it.”
Bradyn Swinson: Defensive End
Bradyn Swinson, a dominant force in 2024, chose to play in the Texas Bowl, seizing one last opportunity to represent LSU.
“The opportunity to play one final game for LSU is amazing,” Swinson said. “Representing the three letters on that helmet and following the legacy of greats before me is an honor. Anytime you can put a helmet on and play football, you take that chance.”
Swinson’s 2024 season was impressive, with 54 tackles, 8.5 sacks, and two forced fumbles.
Zy Alexander: Cornerback
Zy Alexander, LSU’s top defensive back in 2024, is now preparing for the NFL Draft. In an emotional statement, Alexander reflected on his journey:
“Growing up in Loreauville, Louisiana, I’ve always taken pride in being born and raised in The Boot. Representing Louisiana and playing for LSU has been an honor. To my coaches, trainers, and teammates, thank you for pushing me to be my best. To my family, your love and support have carried me through. I hope to make you proud.”
Alexander concluded his LSU career as a key contributor in the Tigers’ secondary, leaving a lasting impact both on and off the field.