LSU football star named freshman of the year by On3
LSU football true freshman cornerback DJ Pickett was the star of the Tigers ’ 10th-ranked 2025 recruiting class, and he’s made good on that billing in his freshman year. Pickett came to Baton Rouge as a five-star and 247Sports’ 24th-ranked player in the ’25 class.
As a freshman at LSU, Pickett quickly established himself as one of the top young cornerbacks in the country. His three interceptions on the season were tied for the second-most among true freshmen in 2025, per PFF, and his PFF defense grade was the second-best among true freshmen cornerbacks who played at least 100 snaps.
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This exceptional year has landed Pickett in rare air, earning him the recognition of being On3’s Defensive True Freshman of the Year.
Sep 13, 2025; Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA; LSU Tigers cornerback DJ Pickett (3) reacts to intercepting the ball from Florida Gators quarterback DJ Lagway (not pictured) during the second half at Tiger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images
This award highlights an incredible start for Pickett’s first season. Past winners include South Carolina’s Dylan Stewart, Ohio State’s Caleb Downs, and LSU’s very own Harold Perkins Jr.
Being in such company sets a high bar for Pickett’s sophomore year, but he has all the tools to succeed, especially with LSU defensive coordinator Blake Baker and defensive backs coach Corey Raymond electing to stay with the team.
Based on what Pickett has shown on the field as a true freshman, it seems the sky is the limit for the Florida native.
This article originally appeared on LSU Wire: LSU football star named freshman of the year by On3