LSU Transfer Portal Class Labeled a Major Hit and Miss for 2025 Season

The LSU Tigers secured a top-ranked transfer portal class last offseason. It featured several high-profile players expected to make an immediate impact. Two key additions were cornerback Mansoor Delane and wide receiver Nic Anderson.

Their 2025 seasons, however, told vastly different stories. According to CBS Sports, while Delane excelled, Anderson was labeled one of the portal cycle’s “biggest busts.” This stark contrast highlights the unpredictable nature of transfer acquisitions.

Mansoor Delane Emerges as Defensive Lockdown Star

Delane transferred from Virginia Tech and became a cornerstone for LSU’s defense. He started 11 games at cornerback for the Tigers. Opposing quarterbacks largely avoided throwing to his side of the field all season.

The stats prove his dominance. In 358 coverage snaps, he allowed just 13 receptions for 147 yards. He did not surrender a single touchdown pass all year.

His performance was a key reason LSU led the SEC in pass efficiency defense. The team also topped the conference in interceptions and passes defended. Delane provided the lockdown presence the secondary desperately needed.

Nic Anderson’s Struggle Highlights Transfer Risk

Nic Anderson arrived from Oklahoma with massive expectations. He held the Sooners’ freshman record for touchdown catches. At LSU, he was unable to find that same explosive form.

Anderson finished the 2025 season with only 12 catches for 106 yards and two touchdowns. He played in just seven games for the Tigers. This dramatic drop in production led to the “bust” designation from analysts.

The Tigers’ other major portal receiver, Barion Brown, also had a quiet year. This shows that even highly-rated transfers offer no guarantees. For LSU fans, the portal class was a definitive mix of triumph and disappointment.

The LSU transfer portal strategy delivered both a definitive star and a notable miss. This outcome underscores the high-stakes gamble of building through college football’s free agency.

Thought you’d like to know

Who was LSU’s best transfer portal addition in 2025?

Cornerback Mansoor Delane was the clear standout. He transformed the secondary, becoming one of the SEC’s most dominant cover corners and a major reason for the team’s defensive improvement.

Why was Nic Anderson considered a bust?

Anderson was a top-three ranked portal receiver but produced minimally. After a record-setting freshman year at Oklahoma, he managed only 12 catches for 106 yards at LSU, failing to meet lofty expectations.

How did LSU’s defense improve in 2025?

Led by Delane, the Tigers led the SEC in pass efficiency defense and interceptions. The secondary’s ability to defend passes was a major strength throughout the regular season.

Will Nic Anderson return to LSU next season?

As it currently stands, Anderson remains on the LSU roster. His future role will be a key question for the new coaching staff under Lane Kiffin.

Did any other LSU transfers underperform?

Kentucky transfer receiver Barion Brown also had modest numbers. The highly-touted duo of Anderson and Brown combined for far less production than anticipated when they signed.