LSU football’s 2026 defense was boosted by the return of star linebacker Whit Weeks. The veteran defender turned down the NFL and opted to return to Baton Rouge for his senior season. Weeks is expected to be one of the top linebackers in the country and a potential first-round pick in the 2027 NFL Draft.
When Weeks was on the field in 2025, he was good. But he battled injuries throughout the fall, and when Weeks was out, LSU’s defense wasn’t the same. Let’s take a look at the numbers to put Weeks’ impact in perspective.
With Weeks, LSU’s defense held opponents to 2.64 yards per rush. Without Weeks, LSU allowed 4.54 yards per carry. That’s a stark difference of over two yards per carry. LSU and Weeks allowed a rushing success rate of 35%, but with Weeks off the field, the mark was 43%. Simply put — LSU’s run defense was worlds better with Weeks on the field.
In eight games, PFF charted Weeks with 13 stops and 17 pressures. He’s played over 1,300 career snaps, and that experience and leadership is critical for an LSU team with plenty of new faces.
LSU’s defense with and without Whit Weeks
Weeks was limited for much of LSU’s spring practice, but he’s expected to be healthy when fall rolls around. Weeks, paired with former Ole Miss linebacker TJ Dottery, gives LSU one of the most experienced linebacker units in the SEC.
This article originally appeared on LSU Wire: LSU football’s run defense solidified by return of star LB Whit Weeks