Harold Perkins describes how freshman Gabriel Reliford reminds him of himself

Brian Kelly put together a great recruiting class for LSU during the 2024 cycle, finishing No. 7 overall per the On3 Industry Team Rankings. The Tigers made sure to load up on defensive prospects, specifically on the line of scrimmage. Nothing is more important when competing in the SEC and LSU made it a priority.

At least to veteran leader Harold Perkins, one freshman is already standing out. Gabriel Reliford has been a nice presence for LSU since stepping on campus. In certain ways, Reliford reminds Perkins of himself dating back to when he got to Baton Rouge ahead of the 2022 season.

Nothing to do with the on-field abilities, though. Perkins is a linebacker while Reliford may come off the edge or play interior defensive line. The respective mindsets as freshmen is where Perkins sees similarities.

“Gabe is somebody that I’ve been watching quietly,” Perkins said at SEC Media Days. “He’s humble, he puts in the work every single day, he comes in every day and busts his tail to be the best. I’ve just watched him put in the work. He reminds me of myself. Just coming in, not trying to step on anybody’s toes. ‘I just want to be the best. I’m here to take somebody’s spot.’

“So, that’s kind of what he reminds me of myself a little bit in that remarks. Quiet, just trying to put in his work and be great.”

Perkins wound up making a significant contribution as a true freshman. He recorded 72 tackles, 13.0 tackles for a loss, and 7.5 sacks. Everybody remembers the breakout game against Arkansas as well, almost single-handedly winning LSU an SEC contest.

Expectations are likely not as high for the incoming player. Reliford played high school football at Shreveport (LA) Evangel Christian Academy, where he was a four-star prospect. He was the No. 202 overall recruit in the 2024 cycle, according to the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies. Perkins was a five-star prospect at linebacker and was always thought of as an instant impact player under Kelly.

Reliford is certainly conducting himself the right way, at least to his teammate. The potential bright future might not be too far away either. LSU is going to be looking to make significant defensive improvements in 2024 and anybody willing to step up to the plate could be given the opportunity.