The LSU Tigers have spent the college football offseason reshaping a roster that went 7-6 last year under new head coach Lane Kiffin.
With the No. 1-ranked transfer portal class in 247Sports’ ranks and 40 new additions—three of them considered five-star players—Kiffin has immediately placed the Tigers back in the spotlight as he’ll attempt to reestablish LSU among the nation’s top contenders starting next season.
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Kiffin, however, made it clear after Tuesday’s first practice that developing his players and trusting the process over the ultimate results will matter most during his time at Baton Rouge.
“I think expectations can be really scary. We don’t really look at it that way,” Kiffin said. “We don’t talk that way because that’s really outcome-based, not process-based. It’s much more about the day-to-day process and always trying to find a way to improve our players.”
LSU Tigers head coach Lane Kiffin looks on before a college football game.© Maria Lysaker-Imagn Images
(© Maria Lysaker-Imagn Images)
Although transfers have become key in the college football world, recruiting remains a central part of roster building. So far, LSU has only landed two players as part of the 2027 cycle, and they lost one of their top targets on Sunday.
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Four-star safety Myles Baker announced his commitment to the California Golden Bears, choosing Cal over LSU, Oregon and Alabama, per On3’s Hayes Fawcett.
“BREAKING: Four-Star Safety Myles Baker has Committed to Cal,” Fawcett posted on X, before quoting a message from the player: “I’m home🐻! Proverbs 18:16”
The decision comes as a setback for LSU, which was considered the team to beat earlier in Baker’s recruitment.
“I had a great visit to LSU in January. I have a lot of love for them and they have always been a top school for me,” Baker said on Thursday.
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A visit to Berkeley, however, ultimately shifted Baker’s decision.
“My visit to Cal really sealed the deal for me,” Baker said. “I have a strong connection with the coaching staff and it was great to be around everyone.”
The defensive back is considered the No. 24 safety in the 2027 class by 247Sports Composite, and the No. 263 overall recruit in the nation.
Related: Lane Kiffin Delivers Reality Check on LSU Expectations
Related: Georgia, Kirby Smart Receive ‘Amazing’ Message From Top OL Target
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Mar 29, 2026, where it first appeared in the College Football section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
