LSU football needs four-star defensive end to boost depth

LSU football lacks depth at the defensive end position. The Tigers signed two prized transfers -- former Ole Miss pass rusher Princewill Umanmielen and ex-Tennessee edge Jordan Ross -- but LSU didn't add much down the depth chart.

LSU was counting on the return of Gabe Reliford until Reliford tore his ACL in the spring. That left LSU even thinner. Now, pressure is on a couple of inexperienced defensive ends to emerge. A name to watch could be Damien Shanklin.

Shanklin signed with LSU in 2025 as a four-star recruit. Shanklin was the No. 234 overall-ranked recruit and top-30 at his position. Shanklin didn't play much as a true freshman, only seeing the field for 10 defensive snaps. He notched two sacks in garbage time vs. SE Louisiana.

Shanklin was a blue-chip recruit for a reason. He has the size and talent to play in the SEC. He has a golden opportunity to prove that in 2026. Umanmielen and Ross won't play every down. LSU will develop a rotation at the position, even if Umanmielen and Ross play the bulk of the snaps. There's not much standing in Shanklin's way for more playing time.

LSU doesn't need Shanklin to have a breakout year, but this defense would benefit from Shanklin playing 10-15 quality snaps per game.

This article originally appeared on LSU Wire: LSU football counting on this four-star edge to emerge in 2026