Lane Kiffin Praises Transfer LB TJ Dottery's Move to LSU

New LSU coach doubles down on support for linebacker who left Ole Miss for Tigers

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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New LSU football coach Lane Kiffin has expressed strong support for linebacker TJ Dottery, who recently transferred from Ole Miss to join the Tigers. Kiffin praised Dottery's character and decision to enter the transfer portal, saying it reflects the player's commitment to building a winning culture at LSU. The addition of Dottery gives the Tigers a formidable linebacker corps alongside Whit Weeks and Davshon Keys, which is expected to be one of the best in the SEC.

Why it matters

Kiffin's public backing of Dottery's transfer highlights the coach's ability to connect with players and build a positive team culture, which will be crucial as he looks to turn around LSU's football program. The Tigers' linebacker unit is now poised to be a strength, providing a strong defensive foundation for the team's success in the upcoming season.

The details

In a recent press conference, Kiffin explained that acquiring Dottery was a strategic move to strengthen LSU's locker room culture as the new season approaches. He praised Dottery for taking the difficult step of entering the transfer portal, emphasizing that the decision reflected the player's character and Kiffin's proactive approach to addressing challenges head-on.

  • Dottery announced his transfer to LSU a few weeks ago.
  • Kiffin discussed Dottery's acquisition during a press conference on February 4.

The players

Lane Kiffin

The new head coach of the LSU football team, known for his offense-minded approach and ability to connect with players.

TJ Dottery

A linebacker who recently transferred from Ole Miss to LSU, expected to be a key part of the Tigers' formidable linebacker corps.

Whit Weeks

A linebacker at LSU who will team up with Dottery and Davshon Keys to form one of the best linebacker units in the SEC.

Davshon Keys

A linebacker at LSU who will be part of the Tigers' talented linebacker group alongside Dottery and Weeks.

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What they’re saying

“Hearing him sit there and go to bat for TJ Dottery in the fashion that he did. He could have very easily answered that question in the most obvious way… He could have shut it down. Instead, he goes to bat and defends the player. Says that 'No, no, no TJ Dottery showed me by doing the uncomfortable of getting in the portal and coming here to be a part of this.'”

— Noah Tingle, Podcast Host (Tingle & Co)

“When you love someone … @LSUfootball”

— Lane Kiffin (X)

What’s next

The LSU linebacker corps, led by Dottery, Weeks, and Keys, is expected to be one of the best in the SEC and will be a key factor in the team's success in the upcoming season, which begins on September 5 against Clemson.

The takeaway

Kiffin's public support for Dottery's transfer to LSU showcases the coach's ability to build strong relationships with his players, which will be crucial in establishing a winning culture and leading the Tigers to success in the 2026 season.