While LSU's additions during the Spring transfer portal window were massive for the Tigers, the program did a great job with player retention keeping losses to a minimum. The biggest name LSU had enter the transfer portal was former 5-star recruit John Emery Jr which didn't come as a surprise.
After tearing his ACL in practice following the first game of the season, it appeared that John Emery Jr's career may be over after suffering a 2nd torn ACL in his 6th year in College Football. When John Emery announced he'd be returning for a 7th season it came as a shock to everyone including LSU's staff.
Shortly after Emery announced he'd be returning for another season, Brian Kelly announced that he wished him well but, that his final season wouldn't be at LSU. When the spring transfer portal opened, John Emery Jr officially entered the transfer portal leaving LSU.
John Emery Jr signs with UTSA transferring from LSU
On Monday, John Emery Jr found his final program as he signed with UTSA where he'll spend his 7th season.
BREAKING: LSU transfer RB John Emery Jr. has signed with UTSA, @PeteNakos_ reports.
— Transfer Portal (@TransferPortal_) May 12, 2025
Emery will play his 7th season of college football for the Roadrunners.https://t.co/cVqgK7RvNK pic.twitter.com/ROALD3jwJQ
The move to UTSA makes a ton of sense and was one of the schools that stuck out as Emery rejoins former LSU running backs coach Tommie Robinson who signed Emery out of High School.
The goal for John Emery Jr now is to get fully healthy and to stay healthy as he was an effective back when healthy for LSU. As a Freshman, Emery Jr was a part of LSU's 2019 National Championship team but, his final seasons at LSU weren't as glorius. Both the 2023 and 2024 seasons for Emery Jr were cut short due to torn ACL's which is a concern going forward. At UTSA, if Emery stays healthy he can be an impact starter for the Roadrunners and every LSU fan will be hoping he can bounce back to form.