LSU had one of the SEC’s standout defensive backs last season in Mansoor Delane, who developed into a lockdown cornerback and a first-round draft pick.
For the Tigers to take another step toward becoming an elite defense in 2026, they need another difference-maker in the secondary.
They may have found one in safety Ty Benefield.
At 6-foot-3 and 208 pounds, Benefield certainly looks the part. He arrived in Baton Rouge after spending three seasons at Boise State, where he played in 33 games and made 28 consecutive starts.
Benefield was a first-team All-Mountain West selection last season after leading Boise State with 107 tackles.
His size and athleticism also allow him to disrupt passing lanes. He has five career interceptions and 17 passes defended.
Those numbers, along with his physical tools and football intelligence, have made Benefield an early-round prospect for the 2027 NFL Draft.
But the LSU coaching staff is expecting more than just production from its new safety.
Benefield said defensive coordinator Blake Baker has given him the freedom to showcase everything he can do.
“You could just see me doing everything,” Benefield said. “That’s the beauty of Coach (Blake) Baker trusting his players and seeing the potential they have and the athletic ability they have. That’s what makes him such a great coach. He knows guys very well and he knows what they could do.”
Benefield’s high football IQ comes naturally. He has been around the game his entire life.
His father, Daved Benefield, played linebacker for 13 seasons in the Canadian Football League with five different teams. He won the CFL’s Grey Cup with the BC Lions in 2000 and was a two-time CFL All-Star in 1999 and 2003.
Living in Canada gives Benefield a unique connection to Louisiana.
“Growing up in Canada, I see a lot of ties here,” Benefield said Monday during player interviews. “There are a lot of French-Canadians and French (heritage) in New Orleans. Louisiana’s pretty cool.”
Now Benefield is preparing for the biggest stage of his young career.
No. 13 LSU opens the season September 5 at Tiger Stadium against No. 23 Clemson, and Benefield isn't hiding his excitement about finally playing in Death Valley.
“I’d be lying if I didn’t tell you I have dreams about playing in Death Valley,” Benefield said. “I just can’t wait to play in that stadium.”
If Benefield develops into the playmaker LSU believes he can be, his dreams of playing in Tiger Stadium may extend well beyond the season opener.
They could eventually include a College Football Playoff game in Death Valley.
