Versatile SEC defender breaks into top ten of the most terrifying college football players heading into 2024
We head down to the Bayou to find the No. 7 player on the list of most terrifying college football players entering the 2024 season. That is LSU linebacker Harold Perkins, who is one of the most unique defenders in the country. He is coming off of two seasons where he recorded 147 total tackles, […]
We head down to the Bayou to find the No. 7 player on the list of most terrifying college football players entering the 2024 season. That is LSU linebacker Harold Perkins, who is one of the most unique defenders in the country. He is coming off of two seasons where he recorded 147 total tackles, 26 tackles for loss, 13 sacks, two interceptions, five pass breakups, and seven forced fumbles for the Tigers.
The scariest part about Perkins for opposing offenses, is all the things he can do defensively and places he can line up. As a freshman, Perkins was used mostly as an edge rusher. He proceeded to lead LSU in both tackles for loss and sacks, despite playing with an NFL pass rusher in BJ Ojulari.
As a sophomore, LSU deployed him in a very different role. Perkins was used as a SAM linebacker, while pressed him into playing an overhang position in space a ton. Perkins played that role well, but it was not the best fit for his rare combination of range and explosiveness getting downhill. Despite that, Perkins had nearly identical production from his freshman campaign. Perkins was used as a pass rusher at times, utilizing his bend and twitch to finish at the quarterback.
Now a junior, Perkins is set for another position switch. He is being projected to now play WILL linebacker for new defensive coordinator Blake Baker. It is believed that Perkins could still see some pass rushing reps in obvious passing situations, but he will mostly be utilized from the middle of the defense. This should fit his skill set best transitioning to the NFL level, measuring in at just 6’ 0 ⅛” and 215 pounds this offseason for scouts.
Perkins is going to be relied upon a lot this season for a defense that still needs to build the overall talent. There is no questioning who the star of that unit is. Every opposing offense is going to be keeping a close eye on No. 4 in purple, yellow, and white. If that isn’t a testament to the fear he demands from an offense, I don’t know what is.
