Ed Orgeron updates status of Kevontre Bradford, Armoni Goodwin

On the same day that LSU running back John Emery was declared unavailable for the rest of the season, Tigers head coach Ed Orgeron offered some positive news at the running back position. Kevontre Bradford is expected to be eligible to return for LSU’s next game.

Bradford began his collegiate career at LSU last season, but transferred to Oklahoma in June. In August, he re-entered the NCAA Transfer Portal and found his way back to Baton Rouge. Orgeron was optimistic about Bradford’s status heading into Week Three. He also mentioned that Armoni Goodwin is questionable.

“John Emery is out the year,” Orgeron said to reporters on Monday. “He’s unavailable. I do believe Armoni Goodwin is questionable for this week. And that’s a shame because I think he’s an outstanding running back. ‘Tre Bradford, as far as I know, will be eligible for the game. We’ll have to see how the week goes, and hopefully we can play him this week.”

LSU is in need of a boost in the running game

Emery had not played a game yet this season, and that will remain the case for the rest of the year. Now, the Tigers must move forward at the position without him. Potentially getting Kevontre Bradford back in the mix could be the boost that the LSU offense is looking for.

LSU quarterback Max Johnson thinks that Bradford could bring some needed versatility to the Tigers’ backfield.

“I think he’s a great runner, he sees the holes,” Johnson said. “He’s actually a really good pass catcher as well. I think he brings great energy.”

Bradford appeared in five games as a freshman last season and rushed 10 times for 58 yards, adding a touchdown reception. LSU’s rushing attack has been extremely inconsistent so far this season. Against UCLA in week one, the Tigers rushed for just 49 yards on 25 carries, which was just two yards per carry. Against McNeese, the Tigers slightly improved in the running game, but still averaged just 3.5 yards per carry. Corey Kiner led the way in week two with 56 yards and a touchdown on 11 carries.

Goodwin is a freshman at LSU, and he has only seen two carries so far this season. Both of those carries came against McNeese, and Goodwin averaged 11.5 yards per carry with 23 total yards.