LSU football's running back squad is currently experiencing a notable evolution, spearheaded by the strategic guidance of Coach Lane Kiffin. The team has successfully retained its leading rushers from the previous year, Caden Durham and Harlem Berry, who both chose to continue their careers in purple and gold. Adding to this formidable core, the arrival of Wisconsin transfer Dilin Jones has ignited a new level of competition within the backfield. Kiffin has openly lauded Jones's rapid adaptation and exceptional performance, underscoring his potential to significantly bolster LSU's offensive capabilities.
The Tigers' coaching staff, led by Kiffin, has lauded Dilin Jones for his outstanding contributions since joining the team. Jones's seamless transition and immediate impact have been particularly impressive, building on a promising spring performance. Kiffin highlighted Jones's consistent dedication and strong showing in recent training sessions, expressing considerable optimism about his future with the program. This praise underscores the coaching staff's satisfaction with Jones's progress, signaling his readiness to take on a pivotal role.
Dilin Jones's journey to LSU follows a two-year stint at Wisconsin, where he demonstrated his capabilities as a versatile running back. During his sophomore year in 2025, Jones started the first seven games for the Badgers, accumulating 300 rushing yards on 76 carries and scoring two touchdowns, before his season was cut short by injury. His proven ability to contribute both on the ground and in the passing game makes him a valuable asset for LSU, especially as the team aims to fortify its running game, which faced challenges in the previous season.
With the return of Caden Durham and Harlem Berry, who collectively amassed 969 rushing yards and five touchdowns in 2025, LSU's backfield is poised for a resurgence. The coaching staff appreciates that both Durham and Berry have several years of eligibility remaining and have consistently displayed a robust work ethic. Kiffin emphasized the ongoing need for improvement, stating, 'We're pleased with where they're at now, but we want to push them more,' reflecting a commitment to maximizing the potential of every player.
The emergence of Jones as a potential lead back has been a pleasant surprise for many, especially given initial expectations that Harlem Berry, a former five-star recruit, would shoulder the majority of carries. However, Kiffin's track record for identifying and developing talent from the transfer market, exemplified by Kewan Lacy's success at Ole Miss, suggests a keen eye for talent. This strategic recruitment and development approach highlights LSU's determination to build a dominant and multifaceted running game.
LSU's revamped running back unit, comprising experienced talents like Durham and Berry, along with the dynamic addition of Dilin Jones, is set to redefine the team's ground attack. This rejuvenated backfield, supported by a meticulously retooled offensive line, is expected to play a crucial role in the Tigers' ambition to elevate their performance and achieve significant success in the upcoming football season.
