Brian Kelly discusses evolution of LSU running back depth chart throughout fall camp

LSU coach Brian Kelly has the luxury of multiple running backs who can contribute this season. With veterans Josh Williams, Noah Cain and John Emery all back from last season, Kelly expects them to have a head start based on their experience.

However, there’s also a couple of new additions to the team in Notre Dame transfer Logan Diggs and four-star freshman Kaleb Jackson. They’ve been pushing the others for reps, and Kelly isn’t ruling out the possibility that either could emerge as candidates for more playing time. Still, he tends to lean more toward the returning players.

“Typically (experiences rises to the top),” the coach said. “I could be wrong. I’ve been wrong, as you guys know, many, many times.”

Jackson in particular stood out to those in attendance at the Tigers’ practice on Tuesday. He ranked as the No. 189 overall prospect and No. 12 running back in the 2023 cycles according to the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies.

Kelly commended the young back for his play. However, he added that there is still a lot of work to do if he hopes to surpass any of the more experienced running backs on LSU’s roster.

“He had a good day, but you’ve seen this many, many times and I have as well,” the coach said. “We tend to overreact to these kinds of situations. Was that a product of bad tackling or was it great running? Maybe it’s a little bit of both. Now, let’s not take anything away from the kid. He’s done a really good job. But there are other facets that he’s gonna have to continue to work on. We are really excited about his future here, but there’s clearly more work to be done.”

Diggs might have more of a chance to earn playing time this season after rushing for 822 yards and four touchdowns last year at Notre Dame. He also showed his ability as a pass catcher with 10 receptions for 211 yards and a pair of scores.

But given their familiarity with the system, it’s hard to imagine that each one of Williams, Cain and Noah won’t play a factor this year. The trio combined for 1,316 yards and 22 touchdowns while splitting carries in 2022.

Either way, LSU’s running back room looks deep heading into 2023. Quarterback Jayden Daniels should also contribute on the ground after leading the Tigers with 885 yards rushing and 11 touchdowns this past season.

Kelly will have just under two more weeks to figure out his running backs rotation before LSU kicks off the year against No. 8 Florida State on Sept. 3.