At the start of a new college football season, we’re often captivated by the quarterbacks. With players like Caleb Williams, Drake Maye, Michael Penix Jr. and Bo Nix, there are certainly a lot of intriguing players in that category this season.
But often some of the most talented players in the sport don’t get the same preseason recognition. On3’s Andy Staples and Jesse Simonton recently broke down the top non-quarterbacks in college football in 2023, and while Staples went with star Ohio State receiver Marvin Harrison Jr., Simonton opted with an LSU Tiger in [autotag]Harold Perkins[/autotag].
“I have Harold Perkins Jr.,” Simonton said. “Marvin Harrison probably is the net is the best non-quarterback in all of college football. But Harold Perkins Jr. could emerge as the best individual defensive player in the country. This is an LSU team that we know has generated a ton of offseason hype. They’re looking to win the West in back-to-back years.
“If Matt House’s unit is going to make a big leap in Year 2, it’s going to be on this phenom. The dude’s a freak. You and I have both talked about it. He was not at SEC Media Days and yet he probably was the most discussed individual player. Maybe he’s not necessarily overlooked but in terms of his importance as a non quarterback, he’s got to top the list for me.”
Perkins had a breakout true freshman season, leading the team in sacks while primarily playing as an edge rusher. He’ll likely also get some work off the ball in a more traditional linebacker role this season, and with more responsibility on the field, he has the chance to take another leap in 2023.
[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1389]
Contact/Follow us @LSUTigersWire on Twitter, and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Louisiana State news, notes, and opinions.
Follow Tyler to continue the conversation on Twitter: @TylerNettuno