Why this LSU football safety can be an All-American in 2026

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LSU football had a transfer portal scare in January. For a moment, it appeared that safety DaShawn Spears would be on his way out of Baton Rouge as reports of a transfer portal entry trickled out. That didn’t last long, though. LSU and Spears were quick to work out a new deal and keep the talented defensive back in Baton Rouge.

Spears is not a household name in the SEC, but he has the potential to become one this year.

Spears’ 90.1 PFF defensive grade ranked No. 5 among FBS safeties with 200+ snaps while his 90.3 coverage grade ranked No. 4. Spears saw limited action, playing 255 snaps and only starting one game, but that’s not too small of a sample size. Spears played real snaps for Blake Baker’s defense.

Spears’ breakout came in Week 3 vs. Florida. In just nine snaps, Spears picked off two passes, including a much-needed pick-six as LSU’s offense struggled to score points.

Most of Spears’ action came when rotating in as sixth defensive back on obvious passing downs. In 2026, he’ll take on a bigger role with AJ Haulcy moving on to the NFL.

At 6-foot-3, Spears brings versatility to LSU’s defense. He’s athletic enough to play in coverage and big enough to play in the box. Along with the interceptions, he racked up three pressures and a sack in 2025.

Baker’s defense is at its best when he can send blitzers from all over the field, and trust his safeties to hold up in man coverage. Spears helps in both departments.

Alongside returnee TaMarcus Cooley and the transfer portal addition of Ty Benefield, LSU’s safety room might be one of the best in the SEC. Don’t be surprised to see Spears on an All-SEC team come December, if not All-American.

This article originally appeared on LSU Wire: Why this LSU football safety can be an All-American in 2026

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