LSU WRs Jelani Watkins, Kylan Billiot Enter Transfer Portal in Search of Fresh Starts
The winds of change are blowing through Baton Rouge as two young LSU wide receivers, Jelani Watkins and Kylan Billiot, are officially heading to the NCAA Transfer Portal. Both players arrived with plenty of promise, but after limited opportunities over two seasons, they’re looking for new homes-and more playing time.
Let’s start with Watkins. A redshirt freshman and former four-star recruit from Texas, Watkins has seen the field in five games during his time at LSU, recording just two catches for 21 yards.
But his athleticism goes beyond the gridiron. Watkins has also made his mark on the track as a dual-sport athlete, showcasing the kind of speed that makes coaches take notice.
Still, with a crowded receiver room and limited snaps, Watkins is betting on himself and looking for a program where he can make a bigger impact on Saturdays.
BREAKING: LSU WR Jelani Watkins plans to enter the @TransferPortal, his agent tells @On3sports
— Hayes Fawcett (@Hayesfawcett3) December 2, 2025
Watkins, a dual-sport phenom, ran a 10.02 100m at the NCAA Outdoor Track Finals
He’s repped by AiC CEO/GM @RudyCaamano ⁰⁰https://t.co/RlUbB6Fk7q pic.twitter.com/IjReEOQ58m
He’s not alone. Fellow wideout Kylan Billiot is also entering the portal.
Like Watkins, Billiot came in as a four-star prospect from the 2024 class, one of the top-rated players in Louisiana. But despite the hype, his time in Baton Rouge never quite materialized the way many hoped.
He appeared in just one game and didn’t record any stats, leaving him with three full seasons of eligibility to make his next chapter count.
Billiot had offers from Georgia Tech, Tulane, and Memphis coming out of high school, so it’s safe to say he’ll draw interest again as teams look to add size and upside to their receiving corps.
These departures come at a time of transition for LSU, as the program ushers in a new era under head coach Lane Kiffin. The Tigers made a headline-grabbing hire, and Kiffin didn’t waste time laying out his vision.
“I am incredibly honored to have the opportunity to lead the storied LSU Football program,” Kiffin said. “From national championships to iconic players, LSU is synonymous with excellence and is among the most powerful brands in all of sports.
I’m grateful to President Rousse, Verge Ausberry and LSU’s leadership for placing their faith in me to lead this program. Our staff will recruit the very best student-athletes in the country - starting at home in the state of Louisiana - and will work tirelessly every day to bring championships that the LSU fans deserve.
Geaux Tigers!”
BREAKING: LSU WR Kylan Billiot plans to enter the @TransferPortal, per his agency @SetVisionMgmt ⁰
— Hayes Fawcett (@Hayesfawcett3) November 30, 2025
The 6’3 195 WR was ranked as a Top 100 Recruit in the 2024 Class
Will have 3 years of eligibility remaining⁰⁰(repped by @caseygunn0 & @TrentDavis0)https://t.co/RlUbB6Fk7q pic.twitter.com/6reiCTxu3J
That message should resonate with recruits and fans alike, but it also signals a new level of competition within the roster. For players like Watkins and Billiot, the writing may have been on the wall, and the decision to transfer is as much about opportunity as it is about timing.
The NCAA Transfer Portal officially opens in January, but the early announcements give these players a head start in finding the right fit. For LSU, it’s part of the natural ebb and flow of roster management in the modern era of college football. For Watkins and Billiot, it’s a chance to reset, reload, and prove what they can do when given the chance.
Keep an eye on both names as portal season heats up-there’s still plenty of talent and potential waiting to be tapped.