LSU’s No. 18 jersey has to be earned. Head coach [autotag]Brian Kelly[/autotag] said it’s a number “worn by a player who represents the traits and spirit associated with a successful program.”
This year, two LSU players will get the privilege of wearing the jersey: running back [autotag]Josh Williams[/autotag] and linebacker [autotag]Greg Penn III[/autotag].
“Throughout the last 25 years, the number 18 has been passed down to a player who brings all those traits of a great teammate,” Kelly said in a press release.
“A guy you can count on, a guy you want next to you when adversity hits, a guy that’s going to be there when you need him. That’s No. 18,” Kelly said.
No. 18 going to Williams and Penn is no surprise. Williams is a former walk-on who joined the team in 2019. He’s entering his sixth year of college football and has been with LSU through its highs and lows.
In his career, Williams has carried it 197 times for 1,012 yards and 11 TDs. He’s added 40 catches for 337 yards through the air. Along with Kaleb Williams, he’s expected to lead LSU’s RB room.
Penn arrived in 2020 and stuck with LSU through the coaching transition. He took over a starting role in 2022 and has been one of the defensive leaders ever since.
Penn finished last year with 37 stops, 10 pressures, and a forced fumble. One of his best performances came in the bowl game against Wisconsin, where he registered three pressures and a sack.
Contact/Follow us @LSUTigersWire on Twitter, and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Louisiana State news, notes, and opinions.