Over time, LSU has produced some of the best DBs in CFB who go on to dominate in the NFL. In recent years, that has slowed down a bit, well, until last season. Mansoor Delane was the top CB in Baton Rouge, which got him into the top 10 of the NFL Draft. With the Kansas City Chiefs, he should see major success, but now, LSU needs to replace that production on defense. That should not be an issue.
Sometimes, there are players that you can look at and know they can be great. That is where we are with
LSU CB DJ Pickett. The school’s website lists Pickett at 6-foot-4, and in games, it’s clear he is taller than most WRs he plays against. Current football is moving towards using smaller, faster receivers, so having a guy who can outsize them is really important, but that defender must also keep up with the offensive playmakers. Pickett isn’t just keeping up; he is sticking with the receivers.
Last season, Pickett gave up only 21 receptions, 12 first downs, 3 TDs, and 248 yards in 304 coverage snaps. In comparison, Delane, who was a Senior, gave up 13 receptions, 6 first downs, 0 TDs, and 147 yards in 358 coverage snaps. Obviously, those are better numbers, but the fact that Pickett is even that close is outstanding.
Also, Pickett had one more interception than Delane, finishing the season with 3. In Blake Baker’s defense, interceptions are a major factor throughout a season. With pressure from the defensive line, the DBs are going to have opportunities to make plays, and Pickett will be right there to make that happen.
The other aspect of Pickett’s game that really completes his overall talent is his tackling. Pickett is a very willing tackler and, in Baker’s scheme, can be heavily utilized as a blitzer. Putting on some more weight could make him an even better tackler, but for now, not disrupting his speed is best.
With Pickett’s height, playmaking ability, sticky coverage, speed, ability to blitz and tackle, and drive to improve, the young DB has everything needed to become one of, if not the, best defenders in the country.
