Sensational season has Mansoor Delane as the frontrunner for a prestigious award

Mansoor Delane continues to turn heads in 2025. The Virginia Tech transfer was one of the most sought-after players in the transfer portal, and he came to LSU with hopes of showcasing his skills on the national stage. He has done just that, and is one of the top defensive players in all of college football through 10 games.

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For his efforts, Delane has been selected as a semifinalist for two prestigious awards. First, Delane is a semifinalist for the Bednarik Award, which is presented annually to the collegiate defensive player of the year by the Maxwell Football Club. Past LSU winners include Patrick Peterson in 2010 and Tyrann Mathieu in 2011.

Delane is also a semifinalist for the Jim Thorpe Award, which is awarded to the top defensive back in college football. Three former Tigers have won the award: Patrick Peterson in 2010, Morris Claiborne in 2011, and Grant Delpit in 2019. As it stands, Delane is among the frontrunners to win the Thorpe Award this season.

Delane put forth another dominating effort this past weekend against Arkansas. On the day, Delane was targeted just five times and allowed just 34 receiving yards. He had two pass breakups and an interception, and held Arkansas QB Taylin Green to a measly 27.5 passer rating when he was targeted.

When speaking about Delane following the game, interim head coach Frank Wilson had high praise for his star cornerback. "He's a young man who knows what he wants. He's a reflection of when hard work meets opportunity and preparation. That's the result you get," Wilson said.

Delane has blossomed into arguably the best cover man in all of college football this season. He is skyrocketing up NFL Draft boards thanks to his stellar play, and it wouldn't be surprising to hear his name called on Day 1. He has the potential to be a real star at the next level.

Delane was originally a 3-star recruit out of high school. He spent three seasons in Blacksburg with Virginia Tech, earning All-ACC honors last year in 2024. He then came to LSU looking to prove that he can play at an elite level under the brightest lights on the national stage, and that's exactly what he's doing.