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The LSU Tigers football season is inching closer, now down to double digits on the countdown clock. Kickoff against the Clemson Tigers is now just 96 days away.

As we continue to look back at the history of the Bayou Bandits to celebrate and prepare heading into the first game, there is also the matter of getting to know the current-day players.

Here is a look at the present of No. 96 at LSU:

No. 96 – DL Dominick McKinley

McKinley is a rare player on this roster that was a big-time recruiting win for the Brian Kelly era staff. He was a highly-touted defender coming into college and has flashed that potential. Now, he prepares for what should be his most involved season yet.

The Lafayette native was a five-star recruit out of high school, the only one that LSU had in that 2024 recruiting class. Now heading into his junior campaign, the Tigers lineman has picked up 19 tackles with five TFLs and four sacks. 

While those numbers don't exactly jump off the page, it's important to remember that the defensive interior doesn't always leave much room for production in college.

McKinley has started to play more snaps consistently, and given the investment to keep him in Baton Rouge this offseason, he should likely be a starter next season. He hasn't been very productive as a pass-rusher, but he is a solid run-blocker.

His brother, Darryus, flipped his commitment from LSU to the Ohio State Buckeyes late last year. When that happened, there were immediate fears that the Tigers would lose McKinley to the portal and NIL.

Playing time won't be guaranteed, though, as this could end up being a very competitive defensive line rotation. McKinley is near the top, but right by him is both Stephiylan Green and Malik Blocton.

Along with the veterans, they also brought in one of the best recruiting classes of all time when it comes to one team's defensive line talent added. Richard Anderson, Deuce Geralds and Lamar Brown will all fight hard to see the field as well. 

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