In a major offseason development for the LSU Tigers football program, sophomore running back Caden Durham has officially entered the NCAA transfer portal. This move marks a significant shift in the team's roster composition as new head coach Lane Kiffin begins his tenure in Baton Rouge.
Caden Durham's Productive Stint with the Tigers
The talented running back from Duncanville, Texas, spent two impactful seasons with LSU. Arriving as a highly-touted four-star prospect and a top-100 national recruit, Durham quickly lived up to the hype. Over the course of 24 games, he carried the ball 251 times, amassing an impressive 1,258 rushing yards and scoring nine touchdowns.
His freshman campaign was particularly stellar, earning him the prestigious SEC Offensive Freshman of the Year award. That season, he rushed for 753 yards and found the end zone six times. Standing at 5-foot-9 and weighing 205 pounds, Durham was not just a ground threat; he also proved to be a reliable receiver out of the backfield, showcasing a versatile skill set that combined power, vision, and soft hands.
Roster Reshuffle Under Coach Lane Kiffin
Durham's decision to explore the transfer portal comes amidst a period of substantial transition for the Tigers. The university appointed Lane Kiffin as the new head coach in late November 2025, following the mid-season dismissal of the previous coaching staff. Kiffin, known for his aggressive and successful use of the transfer portal, has been actively working to rebuild the roster for the 2026 season.
The running back room has been at the epicentre of this change. Durham is not the only departure; teammates JuJuan Johnson and Kaleb Jackson also entered the portal earlier. This exodus leaves LSU with a startlingly thin depth chart, having just one scholarship running back currently slated for the new year.
A Silver Lining: Harlem Berry's Return
On a positive note for Tigers fans, five-star freshman Harlem Berry has confirmed he will return for his sophomore season. Berry contributed approximately 491 yards and two touchdowns in the 2025 season. His commitment provides Coach Kiffin with a foundational piece around which to construct the future backfield.
What's Next for LSU's 2026 Backfield?
Given Lane Kiffin's renowned portal expertise, expect LSU to be a major player in the market for experienced running backs during the winter transfer window, which remains open through mid-January. The strategy will likely focus on finding immediate contributors to complement and support Harlem Berry.
As for Caden Durham, his entry into the portal is a major storyline. With two years of eligibility remaining and a proven track record in the tough SEC conference, he is poised to be one of the most sought-after running backs available. His departure undoubtedly reshapes LSU's immediate plans but also underscores the dynamic and fluid nature of modern college football rosters. For Tigers faithful, an active and crucial offseason is underway as Coach Kiffin works to restore the program to championship contention.
