LSU's Brian Kelly Highlights Harlem Berry's Potential and Emphasizes Need for Increased Physicality in Freshman Running Back

LSU Tigers Football Head Coach Brian Kelly is optimistic about Harlem Berry, a highly-rated running back from Metairie and one of the top recruits nationally in the class of 2025. Kelly considers Berry the second-best recruit in LSU's cycle and ranks him as the 33rd best player nationwide according to 247Sports. Kelly indicated that Berry is likely to see playing time early in the season. However, he also noted that the freshman needs to develop greater physical toughness to succeed at the college level. "We believe he will have to contribute this year, but he must adapt to the physical demands of college football," Kelly stated, according to Wilson Alexander of The Advocate. With Josh Williams moving to the NFL and John Emery Jr. transferring, LSU's running back roster for 2025 features returning talents like Caden Durham—who amassed 753 yards and six touchdowns—and Kaleb Jackson. Berry has the chance to earn a spot in the rotation as a true freshman, but he will need to prepare for the physicality and intensity of college football, which surpasses high school competition. Sydney Hunte is an Atlanta-based journalist covering SEC and ACC football, MLS, the U.S. men's national ...