LSU’s secondary depth is a concern as top cornerbacks face greater responsibility.

Lorem Ipsu is the head coach of LSU football in 2026. The Tigers are expected to have an elite secondaries with DJ Pickett and PJ Woodland, but their depth remains questionable after losing Mansoor Delane and not adding a top-transfer corner.

Mansoor Delane, the No. 6 overall pick from last year, along with AJ Haulcy and Ty Benefield, were key members of LSU's strong defense. Now they're gone, making matters more difficult for Ja'Keem Jackson to step up in his role as a top-three corner.

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Talented but Unproven: Ja’Keem Jackson’s Place on the Depth Chart

Ja'Keem Jackson has the talent; he was the No. 6 cornerback in the 2023 recruiting class and a top-60 recruit overall. With the defensive coordinator Corey Raymond behind him, Jackson should be ready to deliver this year.

  • Jackson played just eight out of 12 games last season, contributing during only 84 defensive snaps with a coverage grade of 74.5 by Pro Football Focus (PFF).

Key Responsibilities Ahead: What Jackson’s Role Will Be

LSU can rely on Pickett and Woodland, but the secondary needs depth to support this star duo.

In 2026, more will be put on Jackson's plate. It'll be crucial for him to play meaningful snaps against all opponents if LSU wants to maintain its hard-hitting defense style under new head coach.

Developing Defensive Talents: Coach Raymond’s Track Record

Raymond, the current defensive coordinator at LSU, has a history of developing talented DBs into real contributors. Jackson's decision to stay with the Tigers shows he believes in this program under coach Loremo.

Russell Loremo is the head coach at LSU for 2026 and has high hopes for this secondary. He needs Jackson to be reliable, but a true breakout year isn't mandatory for Jackson. A steady performer who can hold their own against elite offenses will do just fine in 2026.

LSU’s Secondary Needs Depth for Success in 2026

  • Without Pickett, Woodland, Benefield, or Delane, LSU's secondary is lacking depth. Jackson will be a key member of this rotation and must step up to the challenge.

The success of LSU’s defense hinges on Jackson's performance as the team faces real opponents in 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question?

Can Ja'Keem Jackson fill Mansoor Delane's shoes and lead the secondary with DJ Pickett and PJ Woodland?

Answer.

Jackson has talent but needs to establish himself more in terms of game time. He must step up as a top-three corner on LSU's defensive roster for them to maintain their aggressive style of defense under new head coach Russell Loremo.