Better Know a Freshman: Garrett Dellinger

LSU offensive line play has been and seems to forever be a roller coaster. From the 2020 side it was certainly on the downward portion, both in terms of play and recruiting, as the Tigers landed just two offensive linemen. That said, the big get in this group is absolutely the kind that any team could use: Garrett Dellinger.

The Story

Hailing from Clarkston Michigan, the four-star No. 90 overall player had offers from all the big schools. Although he was linked to Michigan very early in his recruiting, James Cregg and Ed Orgeron made enough of an impression to secure a commitment from the offensive tackle. Dellinger made the decision to enroll early and has been with the Tigers through spring practice

The Numbers

The Film

Scouting Report by Allen Trieu from 247

“Tall, but is naturally broad-shouldered and will be able to carry a lot of good weight in college. Very good athlete who has also played varsity basketball since his freshman season. Plays tough and gets off the ball with good pad level. Has balance and coordination in space. Good strength given his age, still continuing to make progress in that department will be key for him the next couple of years. Has experience at both guard or tackle. Solid bender, can still keep improving in the flexibility department. Pass set is good because of his feet and athletic ability but we have not seen him go against elite pass-rushers yet. Likely projects more to tackle eventually. High-level prospect with great physical tools, experience competing against good competition in several sports and intangibles as well. Will be an impact player and early round NFL draft choice with proper progression.”

The Future

You hate to say a prospect has to be good but LSU absolutely needs Dellinger to live up to his hype. LSU hasn’t always been able to land top 100 offensive lineman, so Dellinger represents a big commitment win. Although he played tackle it seems his early work is going to be at guard.

The bigger concern is less so with Dellinger and more about the whole offensive line situation. Brad Davis should provide stability but James Cregg was supposed to do the same. Point is, LSU’s lack of success bringing along high caliber offensive line talent of late has not been great. Since La’El Collins who has been the last elite offensive line recruit that has lived up to their recruiting rankings? True, it’s not about where you start but recent history says the production of LSU’s top offensive line recruits does not match up with the expectations placed on those players when they entered.

This isn’t to say that Dellinger is doomed to be a bust. One should be optimistic that Dellinger can break this occurrence. If he proves to be a regular starter early in his career, that would be incredibly promising for his long term aspirations in the program .

High end: Quickly finds his way to a starting offensive line spot, competes for All-SEC honors as an upperclassman, and is a high draft pick

Low end: Swingman, playing multiple positions across the offensive line but isn’t a full time starter

Realistic: Is a starting guard by his sophomore season, makes transition to tackle as a junior or senior, day two draft pick.