Recruiting: Ex-Syracuse cornerback Chestnut to transfer to LSU

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LSU continues to dip into football’s transfer portal, adding players who can upgrade the roster for 2023.

This weekend, the Tigers secured a commitment who was rated among the top at his position when Syracuse cornerback Darian “Duce” Chestnut. He visited campus and made the move to stay.

The 6-foot, 198 pounder made 24 appearances for the Orange, starting 12 games as a true freshman in 2021. He earned Freshman All American honors. Chestnut entered the transfer portal on December 13 and opted not to play in the Pinstripe Bowl last month.

Chestnut tallied 83 tackles during his time at Syracuse with four interceptions and three tackles for loss. His 13 passes broken up represent the second most passes defensed in the ACC during that time.

Versatile enough to play safety, Chestnut is destined to help the Tigers at cornerback with perhaps his best fit at the nickel. He has top-notch instincts, a high football IQ and the ability to transition well in pass defense. He’s both a physical tackler and quickly able to reach his top speed.

LSU has also added JK Johnson (Ohio State), Zy Alexander (Southeastern Louisiana) and Denver Harris (Texas A&M) to bolster the cornerback spot via the portal. As a result, potential weakness area has the chance to be a strength next season.

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Rene Nadeau

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Born and raised in the New Orleans area, Rene Nadeau has been involved in sports ever since his earliest memories. Rene played basketball, wrestled, ran track, and was an All-District running back in football at John F. Kennedy High School. He went on to be a member of the LSU football program, developing a passion for the game in even…

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