Tamarcus Cooley, a talented defensive back, has made a major decision in his college football career by committing to the LSU Tigers. Cooley, who previously played for NC State, was a highly sought-after player in the transfer portal, with strong interest from multiple programs, including Kentucky and Ole Miss. His commitment to LSU marks a significant addition to the Tigers’ defense and solidifies their transfer class for the upcoming season.
Who Is Tamarcus Cooley?
Cooley, a 6-foot, 205-pound safety from North Carolina, was a highly rated recruit coming out of Rolesville High School. Known for his versatility, athleticism, and football IQ, he quickly became a standout at NC State. He played in 17 games at the college level, recording 43 tackles, three tackles for loss, and three interceptions. His ability to cover ground in the secondary, along with his physical playing style, made him one of the top safeties in the transfer portal.
Why LSU?
LSU has long been known for producing elite defensive backs, often referred to as “DBU” (Defensive Back University). The program has a rich history of sending safeties and cornerbacks to the NFL, and Cooley saw this as the perfect opportunity to develop his skills at the highest level.
Another major factor in his decision was LSU’s defensive scheme. Cooley’s ability to play both safety and slot corner makes him a perfect fit for a defense that prioritizes versatility and aggressive play. The Tigers struggled with consistency in their secondary last season, and Cooley’s arrival should provide an immediate boost to their defensive backfield.
Kentucky’s Strong Pursuit
Kentucky was heavily involved in Cooley’s recruitment and had high hopes of landing the talented safety. The Wildcats had hosted Cooley and his brother, Trevion Cooley, a running back transfer from Georgia Tech, for visits, signaling strong interest in bringing both players to Lexington.
The Wildcats have been building a competitive program in the SEC, particularly on defense, and adding a player like Cooley would have been a major boost. However, despite Kentucky’s best efforts, LSU’s reputation and defensive system ultimately won out.
What Cooley Brings to LSU
Cooley is a dynamic playmaker who can contribute immediately to LSU’s secondary. His strengths include:
- Instincts and Play Recognition – Cooley reads plays well, allowing him to make quick decisions and react to the ball effectively.
- Ball Skills – His three interceptions last season demonstrate his ability to disrupt passing lanes and create turnovers.
- Physicality – Cooley isn’t afraid to come down and help in run support, making him a valuable asset in multiple defensive schemes.
- Versatility – His experience playing both safety and slot corner gives LSU options in how they deploy him in coverage.
With the SEC featuring some of the most high-powered offenses in college football, having a player like Cooley who can match up with top-tier receivers and tight ends will be crucial for LSU’s defense.
LSU’s Success in the Transfer Portal
Cooley’s commitment adds to LSU’s impressive transfer class. He becomes the Tigers’ 16th transfer player, reinforcing their strategy of using the portal to reload their roster quickly. LSU’s ability to attract top talent, both from high school recruiting and the transfer portal, continues to be a major factor in their competitiveness in the SEC.
What’s Next for Kentucky?
While missing out on Cooley is a setback for Kentucky’s defense, the Wildcats still have options to improve their secondary. They may continue to pursue other transfer portal players or rely on player development within their current roster.
Additionally, Trevion Cooley, Tamarcus’ brother, has yet to announce his decision, leaving open the possibility that Kentucky could still land one of the Cooley brothers.
Conclusion
Tamarcus Cooley’s decision to commit to LSU over Kentucky and other programs is a significant development in college football recruiting. LSU gains a versatile, talented defensive back who can make an immediate impact, while Kentucky must pivot and explore other options to strengthen its defense.
As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on Cooley to see how he integrates into LSU’s defense and whether he can live up to the expectations that come with playing in the SEC. His commitment further solidifies LSU’s reputation as a top destination for elite defensive talent and sets the stage for what could be a standout season for both Cooley and the Tigers.
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