The LSU Tigers are set to battle the Houston Cougars in the Texas Bowl on December 27. The game presents plenty of opportunities for the Tigers, as players have a chance to "audition" for new head coach Lane Kiffin. However, some Tigers don't plan on sticking around for the Lane Kiffin era at LSU.
LSU's chances of landing prized assistant now in doubt after latest development
According to CBS Sports' Matt Zenitz, sophomore RB Ju'Juan Johnson intends to enter the transfer portal. It's a tough blow for Kiffin and LSU, as Johnson is a home-state hero and has plenty of potential moving forward in his career.
LSU running back Ju’Juan Johnson (@JujuanJohnson7) is entering the transfer portal, a source tells @CBSSports.
— Matt Zenitz (@mzenitz) December 10, 2025
Former 2024 Adidas All American, Gatorade Player of Year, Louisiana Mr. Football, and current record holder for all-purpose yards and most touchdowns in Louisiana high… pic.twitter.com/k3X8bYSxCr
Louisiana great Ju'Juan Johnson plans to enter the transfer portal
Johnson is one of the most decorated prep players in Louisiana history. He shined at Lafayette Christian Academy, where he set the Louisiana High School Athletic Association record for total yards (14,451) and touchdowns (171) as a quarterback.
However, his time in Baton Rouge hasn't gone as planned. Johnson originally started on the defensive side of the ball, before making the move to running back in Fall Camp last season. He also spent time during the spring at quarterback, as his electric playmaking ability and elite athleticism make him a threat no matter what position he is playing.
Johnson's playmaking ability was on display this season against South Carolina on October 11 when he reeled off a career-long 56-yard run. He finished the game with a career-high 66 yards on five carries, and ended the 2025 season with 38 carries for 151 yards and two touchdowns on the ground. He leaves Baton Rouge with 165 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 45 carries to his name.
It really is a bummer things haven't worked out for Johnson at LSU. As the most productive high school quarterback in Louisiana history, Tiger fans had high hopes for Johnson in the purple and gold. However, he now seems ready to play elsewhere in 2026. The potential is there for Johnson to make an immediate impact with another Power 4 program.