LSU running back Kaleb Jackson has transformed his physique since arriving on campus, and after adding significant size ahead of his sophomore year, he is ready for a breakout season.
Jackson, the top running back in Louisiana who graduates from high school in 2023, made important appearances as a freshman, but expectations are high for his second season with the Tigers.
His current height is 6’0″ and his weight is 235 lbs, having gained 35 lbs since arriving on campus during his freshman year.
Jackson has spent his life in the weight room and it shows. After leaving high school weighing around 200 pounds, LSU updated the roster and he now weighs 235 pounds.
He has the ability to break through defenses while also using finesse to get past opponents, bringing a new element to LSU’s running back unit.
One question heading into preseason practice will be how LSU will distribute backfield duties, as there are four capable players in the rotation (Josh Williams, Kaleb Jackson, Caden Durham and John Emery).
“When he gets the football, and especially when he breaks the first or second level, he’s a tough running back,” LSU coordinator Joe Sloan said. “He’s tough to tackle. He runs, he pulls his pads down on contact and he can drive his feet forward. He’s a powerful individual.”
#LSU RB Kaleb Jackson has transformed his body since arriving on campus.
1. Photo: Fall Camp 2023
2. Photo: Fall Camp 2024The strength/conditioning program is working wonders in Baton Rouge.
Jackson is currently listed at 1.83 m and 106 kg.
He shared his transformation photos: pic.twitter.com/IdrSm1FNba
– Zack Nagy (@znagy20) 2 August 2024
The Tigers’ biggest concerns are certainly the defense, and for good reason. But there are also questions on offense that need to be answered before the 2024 season.
LSU boasts a wealth of talent on offense in every way. From the return of virtually the entire offensive line under Will Campbell to four wide receivers who can step in and take on key duties this fall, it’s a talented group.
On the outside, Kyren Lacy, CJ Daniels, Chris Hilton, Zavion Thomas and likely Kyle Parker will all be battling for important snaps this season, along with junior Shelton Sampson. Not to mention freshmen Kylan Billiot and Jelani Watkins also have something to prove.
But the running back area also needs to be kept in mind.
Sixth-year Josh Williams returns as a seasoned veteran, a high-IQ player who dominates as a pass protector and occasionally shows off his athleticism here and there, but Jackson will be the player to keep an eye on.
Jackson emerged as a true freshman in 2023 after looking possessed at times. He has a physical presence that sticks out like a sore thumb and backs it up with explosiveness that will benefit this running back room.
In 2024, Jackson has the intangibles to be the guy to count on. He’s an exceptional athlete who provides a dominant one-two punch alongside Williams in the backfield.
“I think you see now what a complete running back he is,” Sloan said.
The other name to keep an eye on is true freshman Caden Durham. The Lone Star State stud certainly won’t shy away from competition and will fight for playing opportunities this season.
He arrived as a summer signee but immediately made a splash. He looks worthy of the role and adds a new element to the running back room with his impressive speed.
That’s a good problem to have in the running back room: a lot of talent with limited reps.
Look for Williams, Jackson, Durham and returning guard John Emery to lead a talented position group in 2024, with Jackson assuming lead back duties sooner rather than later.
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