How transfer portal player Tamarcus Cooley fits with LSU football, safety depth chart

LSU’s acquisition of safety Tamarcus Cooley from the transfer portal marks a significant enhancement to their defensive backfield. Cooley, who previously played for NC State, brings a blend of experience, versatility, and proven performance that is poised to make an immediate impact on the Tigers’ safety depth chart.

Background and Performance at NC State

Standing at 5-foot-11 and weighing 205 pounds, Cooley began his collegiate career at Maryland in 2023 before transferring to NC State for the 2024 season. During his tenure with the Wolfpack, he emerged as a standout defensive player, recording 39 tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss, one sack, and three interceptions. His performance earned him an impressive 80.8 defensive grade and an 81.8 coverage grade from Pro Football Focus, underscoring his effectiveness in both run support and pass coverage.

NC State head coach Dave Doeren praised Cooley’s adaptability and football intelligence, stating, “He played really well in a lot of ways—in the box, setting the edge, fitting in a lot of formations… For a young guy to have to manage all that, it was impressive.”

Immediate Fit into LSU’s Safety Depth Chart

LSU’s secondary faced challenges in the 2024 season, particularly at the safety position, following the departures of starters Sage Ryan (transfer portal) and Major Burns (graduation). The addition of Cooley addresses this critical need, providing the Tigers with a player capable of stepping into a starting role immediately.

Cooley’s skill set aligns well with LSU’s defensive schemes. His ability to play both in the box and in coverage offers the Tigers flexibility in deploying various defensive packages. His proven track record of creating turnovers and defending against the pass will be invaluable as LSU looks to bolster its pass defense, which ranked 76th nationally in 2024.

Competition and Depth at the Safety Position

While Cooley is expected to make an immediate impact, he will join a safety group that includes returning players and new additions:

• Jardin Gilbert: A returning player with experience in LSU’s defensive system.
• Dashawn McBryde: Another returning safety who will compete for playing time.
• Joel Rogers: A redshirt freshman eager to contribute after a year of development.
• Austin Ausberry: A junior with potential to step up in the upcoming season.
• C.J. Jimcoily: A four-star signee from the 2025 recruiting class, bringing fresh talent to the position.
• Jhase Thomas: A three-star recruit also joining the safety group.

Cooley’s arrival elevates the level of competition within this group, which is essential for overall defensive improvement. His experience and playmaking ability will not only enhance the starting lineup but also serve as a valuable resource for younger players developing within the program.

Impact on LSU’s Defensive Strategy

Defensive coordinator Matt House can leverage Cooley’s versatility to implement more dynamic defensive strategies. Cooley’s proficiency in both man-to-man and zone coverage allows for varied defensive looks, potentially leading to increased blitzing from the secondary and more complex coverage schemes.

Additionally, Cooley’s physicality and tackling skills make him a reliable asset in run support, enabling LSU to effectively counter run-heavy offenses. His presence is expected to contribute to a more aggressive and opportunistic defense, aiming to increase turnovers and disrupt opposing offenses.

Conclusion

The addition of Tamarcus Cooley to LSU’s roster is a strategic move that addresses a critical need in the Tigers’ secondary. His combination of experience, versatility, and proven performance positions him to make an immediate and significant impact on the field. As LSU prepares for the 2025 season, Cooley’s presence is anticipated to strengthen the defense, elevate the performance of the safety unit, and contribute to the team’s overall success.