Looking ahead to 2024, LSU is largely set at the quarterback position with redshirt sophomore Garrett Nussmeier expected to return. Still, this hasn’t stopped coach Brian Kelly from pursuing transfers at the position. Yesterday, the Tigers reportedly became one of the first teams to show interest in Texas transfer portal quarterback Maalik Murphy.
LSU showing early interest in Texas transfer portal quarterback Maalik Murphy
When you have a chance at gaining talent, it’s never a bad idea to pursue it. In college football, competition often brings the best out of players, and this is likely what occurred in 2023, as quarterbacks Garrett Nussmeier and Jayden Daniels battled for the bulk of the offseason, turning both into better players.
Now, looking ahead to next season, coach Brian Kelly could be interested in doing something very similar. While Nussmeier is set to return and is widely viewed as the up and coming starter, it hasn’t slowed LSU from pursuing other signal callers this offseason.
Yesterday, Texas quarterback Maalik Murphy hopped into the portal, and the Tigers were not shy. Murphy has one of the best arms in college football, and the purple and gold reportedly showed interest immediately.
The Texas transfer portal quarterback already is viewed as one of the best players looking for a new home, ranking No. 16 nationally and No. 4 among quarterbacks. This is a huge step up from his high school recruiting rank, as he was No. 197 nationally in the class of 2022.
Despite the lack of playing time through his collegiate career, the upside is sky high. Standing at 6-foot-5, 235 pounds, he’s an absolute tank with a cannon for an arm.
In 2023, the redshirt freshman threw the ball 71 times for 477 yards, three touchdowns and three interceptions. There’s little doubt the talent is there, it will just be a matter of how well he can take care of the ball going forward.
Even despite sharing a quarterback room with former five-star recruits Quinn Ewers and Arch Manning at Texas, many even viewed him as the best option on roster.
It’s important to note that if Murphy elected to take his talents to Baton Rouge, the starting job is by no means up for grabs. He’d be working from behind Garrett Nussmeier, and would need to show some serious ability and maturity if he hopes to take it over.
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