LSU's first signing out of the transfer portal replaced a huge part of its offense from last season.
Tight end Bauer Sharp is set to join the Tigers after spending 2024 with Oklahoma. He totaled 324 yards and 17 first downs last season with the Sooners.
Head coach Brian Kelly talked about Sharp's "physicality" and how it will benefit the team's offensive scheme. Coupled with a depleted wide receiver and offensive line room, LSU needs quality blockers and pass catchers. It feels that Sharp can help in both areas.
"If you look at his body of work, it's the physicality in the run game," Kelly said. "Blocking tackles out on the perimeter, we love his physicality in the run game."
Sharp will add to the offense in a variety of ways as it looks to replace 2025 NFL Draft prospect Mason Taylor. He came in as a quarterback at Southeast Louisiana and made the switch at Oklahoma. With a unique perspective, Sharp will aim to help elevate the Tigers' offense alongside Garrett Nussmeier.
It remains to be seen if offensive coordinator Joe Sloan will use Sharp in any passing or direct snap situations given his throwing experience but the Tigers are optimistic about what the tight end will bring to the team.
"He has the ability to do some really good things in the passing game for us as well," Kelly said. "I think what really stood out was having that kind of versatility in the run game and the passing game."