LSU football could have college football's best cornerback duo

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LSU football has a history of producing top-level defensive back talent. LSU earned the “DBU” nickname in the early 2010s after producing stars like Patrick Peterson, Tyrann Mathieu, and Morris Claiborne.

Last year, LSU cornerback Mansoor Delane was an All-American. Delane is off to the NFL, but LSU’s cornerback duo still has the chance to be the best in the SEC, and maybe the country.

DJ Pickett and PJ Woodland are locked in as LSU’s starting corners. Both impressed in 2025, despite Delane taking most of the shine, and are now ready for true breakout years.

Pickett, a five-star recruit in 2025, didn’t waste time staking a spot in LSU’s rotation. Pickett played man coverage in 41.9% of his coverage reps, according to PFF, which was the highest rate in the SEC. His 76.2 coverage grade in man ranked No. 5 in the SEC. Elite for a true freshman.

Woodland was a Swiss Army Knife for defensive coordinator Blake Baker last year. He played corner, played in the slot, and even played some safety. After playing sparingly as a freshman, Woodland found a role as a sophomore, seeing 614 snaps. Per PFF, Woodland posted a 74.0 PFF defensive grade.

LSU’s depth at corner is a question, putting even more pressure on Pickett and Woodland. There won’t be many chances to take either player off the field. That will boost both of their All-SEC and All-American cases at the end of the season.

Few teams in the SEC are better positioned to win in man coverage than LSU. Baker trusts both of his starting corners on an island. We’re not just projecting here — both players are already proven at the SEC level.

LSU envisions a top-five defense in college football this year. That starts with shutdown performances from Pickett and Woodland on a weekly basis.

This article originally appeared on LSU Wire: LSU cornerbacks Pickett and Woodland ready to shine on elite defense

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