LSU defensive tackle Mekhi Wingo shares thoughts on possibility of return in 2024

One of the top Tiger defenders, LSU defensive tackle Mekhi Wingo is yet to make his final decision on the 2024 season. In the midst of preparation for the upcoming ReliaQuest Bowl vs. Wisconsin, the veteran has more pressing matters on his mind at the moment. Still, on Thursday, he took the time to discuss the NFL, as well as his current thoughts on a return to Baton Rouge for his senior season.

LSU defensive tackle Mekhi Wingo still undecided on a potential return in 2024

The Tiger defense can use any help it can get right now. After a less than satisfactory showing in 2023, there’s little doubt coach Brian Kelly has hopes of returning the program to its former defensive glory days.

Still, he can’t do it all by himself. A major factor in getting there will be retaining and gaining talent through recruiting and the transfer portal. Interestingly enough, one of the biggest and most important players to get on roster in 2024 will be current LSU defensive tackle Mekhi Wingo.

After two stellar seasons in Baton Rouge, the former Missouri Tiger is now eligible for the NFL and has a decision to make. Still, with bowl game preparation currently going on, he hasn’t had much time to think on it.

“I haven’t decided what the future may hold for me,” the St. Louis, MO, native said during Thursday’s media availability. “Honestly, right now I’ve just been focused on trying to get better everyday in practice and making sure that I get back to full health.”

Wingo went down with an injury mid-season following the Auburn game and has shown enough improvement to be able to return for the upcoming ReliaQuest Bowl vs. Wisconsin. This is a major win for the Tiger defense, as prior to his injury, he recorded 22 tackles and 2.5 sacks, helping to lead a stout defensive line through the first seven games of 2023.

Mekhi Wingo first-step quickness 🔥🔥🔥 pic.twitter.com/FeZ96GKqTk

— Full-Time Dame 💰 (@DP_NFL) September 4, 2023

Now, looking ahead to 2024, the defense is set to return plenty and are even gaining quite a bit of talent along the way. Retaining a player of Wingo’s caliber would just be icing on the cake.

“We’ve had some conversations, but they haven’t been overwhelming on trying to get me to come back,” LSU defensive tackle Mekhi Wingo continued regarding the potential of leaving for the NFL. “They want me to make the decision that’s best for me and my family. But we definitely talk about how I could come back and get better and just continue to grow and help the team win and be a leader for the team.”

For now, it’s looking likely that we’ll get at least one more glance at the star defensive lineman representing the purple and gold. LSU is set to face Wisconsin in the 2024 ReliaQuest Bowl on New Year’s Day at 11:00 a.m. CST. The game will be held at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida, and will be broadcast live on ESPN2.

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