Dec 27, 2025 – SI.com
Star Boise State defensive back to enter transfer portal
Two Boise State players announced their intention to enter the transfer portal on Saturday.
Starting safety Ty Benefield, a senior-to-be, and backup freshman running back Greg Ard will both be searching for a new home when the winter transfer portal opens on Friday.
A first-team all-Mountain West selection in 2025, Benefield started all 14 games as a junior and led the Broncos with 105 total tackles. He also recorded three pass breakups, two interceptions, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery and was named Defensive Most Valuable Player of the Mountain West championship game.
The 6-foot-2, 205-pound Benefield also started every game last season as Boise State reached the College Football Playoff for the first time in program history.
“While Boise has been my home for three years, sometimes you have to leave home in order to grow,” Benefield wrote on X. “To my coaches, the community, and my brothers who went to battle with me, thank you. We accomplished something special here, including three straight MWC championships and a spot in the College Football Playoff.
“I will be entering the transfer portal with gratitude in my heart. Excited for the next chapter and the challenges God places before me.”
“I will be entering the transfer portal with gratitude in my heart. Excited for the next chapter and the challenges God places before me.”
Dec 27, 2025 – Twitter
The Official Announcement
Dec 27, 2025 – Twitter
The Reactions
Dec 27, 2025 – KTVN
Boise State Safety Ty Benefield Enters Transfer Portal
BOISE, Idaho — Boise State defensive back Ty Benefield, one of the Broncos’ most productive and experienced players in the secondary, has entered the NCAA transfer portal, announcing his decision in a social media post.
Benefield shared the news on Instagram, thanking Boise State, his coaches and teammates while indicating he plans to explore new opportunities.
Benefield was a multi-year contributor for the Broncos and emerged as a cornerstone of Boise State’s defense, known for his physical style of play and versatility in the secondary.
During the 2024 season, Benefield started every game and led Boise State with more than 80 total tackles, while also recording two interceptions, tackles for loss and pass breakups. He played a high volume of defensive snaps and served as a leader on the back end of the defense.
He followed that performance with another strong season in 2025. Benefield again led the Broncos in tackles, finishing with 105 total tackles. He added two interceptions, multiple tackles for loss, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery, anchoring a defense that helped Boise State capture the Mountain West championship. His play earned him All-Mountain West First Team honors and Mountain West Championship Game Defensive MVP recognition.
Dec 27, 2025 – Idaho Statesman
Boise State’s all-conference safety, title game MVP to enter transfer portal
Boise State football’s secondary took a big hit on Saturday morning. With less than a week to go until the college football transfer portal officially opens Jan. 2, junior safety Ty Benefield announced via social media that he would be leaving Boise State to enter the portal. “While Boise has been my home for three years, sometimes you have to leave home in order to grow,” Benefield, a native of Altadena, California, posted on Instagram. “I will be entering the transfer portal with gratitude in my heart, excited for the next chapter and the challenges God places before me,” Benefield wrote later in the post.
Benefield began his Boise State career in 2023 as a freshman and quickly became an integral part of the defense, playing in 13 games. He went on to start all 14 games in each of his sophomore and junior years and became a leader on defense, earning Honorable Mention All-Mountain West in 2024 and All-Mountain West first team in 2025.
Dec 27, 2025 – SI.com
Star Boise State defensive back to enter transfer portal
A first-team all-Mountain West selection in 2025, Benefield started all 14 games as a junior and led the Broncos with 105 total tackles. He also recorded three pass breakups, two interceptions, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery and was named Defensive Most Valuable Player of the Mountain West championship game.
The 6-foot-2, 205-pound Benefield also started every game last season as Boise State reached the College Football Playoff for the first time in program history.
“While Boise has been my home for three years, sometimes you have to leave home in order to grow,” Benefield wrote on X. “To my coaches, the community, and my brothers who went to battle with me, thank you. We accomplished something special here, including three straight MWC championships and a spot in the College Football Playoff.
Dec 27, 2025 – KVTB YouTube
Boise State standout Ty Benefield enters transfer portal
Link: https://youtu.be/2AT74YkOeqQ?si=nHuaGuOoVQYok0XB
Dec 27, 2025 – SI.com
Two-time All-Conference DB enters college football transfer portal
Another gem out of the defensive backfield has entered the transfer portal
The college football transfer portal doesn’t open for official business until January, but that hasn’t stopped many players across the nation from announcing their intention to enter it come 2026.
On Saturday, another defensive gem entered the market out of the Group of Five ranks. On3 posted on X that Boise State safety Ty Benefield would be entering the portal. He spent three seasons with the Broncos and is likely to be a highly-coveted target in the defensive backfield for top programs.
Ty Benefield led the Mountain West conference in solo tackles by the end of his 2025 campaign, notching an even 70 on the season. He also eclipsed the century mark in terms of total tackles with 107 of those. Benefield added 8.5 tackles for loss along with two interceptions, four passes defended, one forced fumble and fumble recovery. That’s a havoc-generating player out of the defensive backfield who doubles as the most consistent tackler in a respectable college football conference.
For his career to date, spanning three full seasons, Benefield 235 total tackles and five interceptions. The rising senior also boasts experience in the College Football Playoff after Boise State made a trip in the first-ever 12-team field in 2024. When it comes to PFF grading, Benefield fairs well, having scored respectably in the low-70s and mid-60s through his three seasons.
In need of more Benefield accolades? Good, there are some. Let’s start with a cool one, that Benefield was a finalist for the Cornish Award given annually to the top Canadien player in NCAA football. In addition to that prestigious honor, he was the Mountain West Championship MVP in 2025, appeared on back-to-back All-Conference teams in 2024 and 2025 — and he’s even a two-time member of the All-Academic team.
Ty Benefield wasn’t a heralded recruit coming out of high school, ranking just outside the top 1,300 in Rivals’ rankings of the 2023 recruiting class. He was the No. 138 safety and No. 129 player out of the state of California for his cycle. Now, he’ll almost certainly be a top-10 defensive back in the transfer portal ahead of his final season of college football.
Coming out of Rancho Santa Margarita, could a move up the ladder to an even larger West Coast brand be the next move for Ty Benefield? He’ll likely have the world as his oyster during this recruitment. With high-level Group of Five experience, and heck, CFP experience, plus the incredible stat sheet, Benefield is liable to draw attention from schools in every single major college football conference.
Dec 29, 2025 –
Boise State standout DB Ty Benefield to enter the transfer portal
https://superwestsports.com/boise-state-standout-db-ty-benefield-to-enter-the-transfer-portal
Boise State defensive back Ty Benefield, one of the Broncos’ most productive and experienced players in the secondary, has entered the NCAA transfer portal, announcing his decision in a social media post.
Benefield shared the news on Instagram, thanking Boise State, his coaches and teammates while indicating he plans to explore new opportunities.
Benefield was a multi-year contributor for the Broncos and emerged as a cornerstone of Boise State’s defense, known for his physical style of play and versatility in the secondary.
Dec 29, 2025 – Idaho Press
Boise State safety Ty Benefield to enter transfer portal
Benefield has been a mainstay on the Boise State football team the past three seasons, starting 33 games since 2023, including all 28 the past two seasons. He’s had 235 tackles while at Boise State, including 18 for a loss and three sacks. He also added five interceptions in his career.
After a season with 107 tackles and two interceptions, Benefield was named a first-team All-Mountain West selection after the 2025 season. Following a 38-21 win against UNLV in the Mountain West Championship game, a game where he led the Broncos with eight tackles and a fumble recovery, Benefield was named the game’s defensive MVP.
There was some speculation as to whether or not Benefield would declare early for the NFL Draft this offseason, but he will leave Boise State and use his final year of college eligibility elsewhere.
Boise State safety Ty Benefield (0) celebrates an interception, stopping a Washington State drive in the end zone at the end of the first half on Sept. 28, 2024, in Boise.AP Photo/Steve Conner
Dec 29, 2025 – Pro Star Sports Agency – Instagram
Agent annoucement
Dec 30, 2025 – Hero Sports.com
College Football Transfer Portal News: Ty Benefield Is Boise State’s Latest Starter To Hit The Portal. Will More Follow?
Boise State safety Ty Benefield’s decision to enter the transfer portal caught more than one fan off guard. Most expected the three-year starter to declare for the NFL Draft or return to Boise, Idaho, for his senior season.
Shortly after Boise State’s 38-10 loss to Washington in the LA Bowl last week, Broncos head coach Spencer Danielson announced his star defensive back was seeking a NFL Draft grade and would make a decision about his future after talking to his family. On Saturday, Benefield announced he was hitting the portal.
“While Boise has been my home for three years, sometimes you have to leave home in order to grow,” he wrote on X/Twitter.
Benefield’s stats suggest he could demand a pretty big payday wherever he lands, especially if it’s a Power Four program. He has started 33 games, including five as a true freshman in 2023, and he is the Broncos’ leading tackler for the second year in a row. He led the team with 82 last season and paced Boise State with 107 this year. He also has five career interceptions.
He has the accolades to go with those stats. Benefield is a two-time All-Mountain West pick, including first-team honors this year, and he was named Defensive MVP of the conference title game after posting a team-high eight tackles and a fumble recovery in a 38-21 win over UNLV.
The 6-foot-2, 205-pound California native also has professional football in his blood. His father, David Benefield, spent 13 seasons as a linebacker in the Canadian Football League, where he played for five different clubs between 1992 and 2005. He also spent the 1996 season with the San Francisco 49ers.
Benefield was coached by his father for much of his young life, and his dad continues to mentor him on and off the field. Even if the duo is separated by a few hundred miles, they talk on the phone before every game. Benefield said it helps him lock in.
“He always told me that whatever you’ve got going on in your life, if you’ve got girl problems or issues with school, football is your time to let go of everything and focus on the task at hand,” Benefield said. “It’s funny because he thought I never used to listen to him because we argued a lot when I was younger, but I listened to everything he said.”
Dec 31, 2025 – KVTB 7
Scott Slant: Is Wazzu a real-for-real rival?
CASEY’S INVITE & BENEFIELD’S MOVE
The transaction wire was en fuego during Christmas week. On the positive side, Boise State left tackle Kage Casey accepted an invitation to the Senior Bowl a month from now. On the not-so-positive side, there are now 14 soon-to-be-former Broncos headed for the transfer portal at the end of the week, although the only real impact player among them is safety Ty Benefield. Instead of going to the NFL, Benefield will go somewhere else for his final year of eligibility. Boise State can compete when it comes to national exposure for its players, witness Ashton Jeanty last year. It cannot compete with Power 4 money, and Benefield is poised for a payday with his 253 career tackles and five interceptions. Couple that with the fact that there sure won’t be any less exposure at his next stop, and there you go.
Dec Jan 2, 2026 – Clemson Insider
More Portal Safeties Worth Keeping an Eye On
https://www.theclemsoninsider.com/2026/01/02/more-portal-safeties-worth-keeping-an-eye-on\
Earlier in the week, The Clemson Insider released a list of portal players worth watching, which was littered with defensive backs. Today, we wanted to pass along a few more portal safeties worth keeping an eye on.
Boise State’s Ty Benefield is another potential candidate. A staple on the backend of the Broncos’ defense the past three seasons, Benefield has started 33 games since the start of 2023, including all 28 over the past two seasons.
Benefield was named a first-team All-Mountain West selection this season after posting 107 tackles and two interceptions.
Jan 4, 2026 – X
Official Portal Announcement
Jan 4, 2026 – Instagram
Portal Reactions
Jan 4, 2026 – Hashtag
Jan 4, 2026 – Dawgs HQ
Portal Buzz
Jan 5, 2026 – Yahooo Sports
Four players Tennessee should target in the portal
https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/four-players-tennessee-target-portal-132436294.html
Ty Benefield, DB, Boise State
The Vols missed out on Tawfiq Byard, as the talented defensive back committed to Texas A&M on Sunday. There are plenty of other talented safeties in the portal, though, and Ty Benefield would be a perfect target.
Benefield racked up 69 tackles, one forced fumble, and two interceptions for Boise State in 2025. The defensive back visited LSU on Sunday, but if he doesn’t reach an agreement, Josh Heupel needs to be on the phone. Benefield can play as a box safety or in the slot, and his physicality would be welcomed in the Tennessee secondary.
Jan 5, 2026 – DieHard Sports
Michigan Now Has Inroad To Land One Of The Best Portal Defenders With Newest Hire
With the addition of former Boise State co-DC Tyler Stockton as a safeties coach, one of the top players in the portal, Ty Benefield, is one to watch closely:
Jan 5, 2026 – The Advertiser
LSU football transfer portal tracker: Lane Kiffin lands 1st portal commit
New LSU coach Lane Kiffin has more clarity on where his first roster with the Tigers stand and where he and his coaching staff’s focus should lock in. Quarterback was always going to be one of the biggest needs for LSU and running back was a spot of need for depth as well but now tailback will be a higher priority.
Boise State safety Ty Benefield visits LSU football
LSU football hosted Boise State junior safety transfer Ty Benefield Sunday. He is one of the top safeties in the transfer portal.
At Boise State, Benefield was an all-conference player in 2025. Benefield piled up 105 tackles with two picks, a forced fumble and fumble recovery for the Broncos.
Jan 5, 2026 – Maize and Brew
Michigan hiring Boise State co-DC Tyler Stockton as safeties coach
Link: https://www.maizenbrew.com/football/102907/michigan-football-boise-state-tyler-stockton-kyle-whittningham-safeties-coach
Michigan has a couple veteran safeties in Brandyn Hillman and Mason Curtis, and young safeties to be excited about, including Jordan Young and Jacob Oden. Now that group will have a new leader and their own position coach, splitting the previous duties of LaMar Morgan into two jobs. I’m also intrigued to see what impact Stockton can have on Michigan’s recruiting; perhaps he can land Boise State safety transfer Ty Benefield and get off to a hot start.
Jan 6, 2026 – GBM Wolverine
Michigan and Kyle Whittingham going after this stud safety needs to happen
One of the transfer players who the Wolverines have already set their sights on is four-star safety Ty Benefield, who spent the last three years with the Boise State Broncos.
Michigan targets CFP-experienced Ty Benefield
Benefield didn’t see major playing time until last year, but the 2024 season resulted in a College Football Playoff berth for the Broncos, giving the veteran defensive back invaluable postseason experience.
Over the last three seasons, Benefield amassed 233 total tackles (161 solo), 11 pass deflections, five interceptions (50 yards), three sacks, and two forced fumbles.
In other words, he is always everywhere all at once when his team’s defensive unit trots onto the field.
The reason Benefield heading to Ann Arbor simply makes sense is because Whittingham just hired his position coach, Tyler Stockton, from Boise State. So, Benefield would simply be following his coach to a bigger program (exactly what they both deserve after this past season).
This year, the Broncos finished as Mountain West Champions, defeating the top-seeded UNLV Rebels in the conference championship game. Over the year, Benefield earned a career-high 105 total tackles, and tied his career highs for interceptions (2) and forced fumbles (1).
Coming out of high school Benefield was a three-star prospect and the No. 138 safety in the class of 2023. Now, he is a four-star and the No. 9 safety and No. 97 overall prospect in the entire transfer portal.
Whittingham needs to go all in on Benefield, and he should undeniably receive some help from Stockton standing in his corner.
Jan 6, 2026 – LSU Tigers Wire – USA Today
LSU football signs veteran transfer portal safety
LSU football added a highly-touted defender to its transfer portal class on Tuesday. According to The Advocate’s Wilson Alexander, the Tigers are signing former Boise State safety Ty Benefield.
Benefield is one of the top safeties in the portal. Per 247Sports, Benefield is the No. 33-ranked player available. The On3 Transfer Portal Industry Rankings consider Benefield top-10 at his position.
Benefield brings a wealth of experience to LSU’s defense, playing over 2,000 snaps in three years at Boise State. In 2025, he made 80 tackles and recorded 30 stops to go along with two interceptions and three pressures. In his career, he’s racked up 71 stops, five interceptions, two forced fumbles, 15 pressures, and three sacks.
Benefield is versatile. LSU returns TaMarcus Cooley and Da’Shawn Spears at safety, but LSU DC Blake Baker likes to play three safeties in his dime package. We could see Benefield assume the STAR role if LSU opts to play a traditional defensive back in that position with Harold Perkins off to the NFL.
Jan 6, 2026 – Idaho Statesman
Former standout safety at Boise State joins controversial coach in SEC
Former Boise State standout safety Ty Benefield is switching orange and blue for purple and gold. College athletics outlet On3 reported Tuesday morning that Benefield committed to play for LSU in his final year of eligibility. Benefield posted a picture on social media with new LSU coach Lane Kiffin on Tuesday with the caption “Geaux!” and a tiger emoji.
Benefield announced on Dec. 27 that he would enter the transfer portal after spending three years of eligibility with Boise State. Now he’ll go from the Mountain West to the SEC. “While Boise has been my home for three years, sometimes you have to leave home in order to grow,” Benefield, a native of Altadena, California, posted on Instagram in his announcement. Benefield could be a starter on day one in Baton Rouge. LSU is losing all-SEC safety A.J. Haulcy to the NFL Draft and also lost several other secondary players to the transfer portal. Additionally, Benefield is the first defensive player the Tigers and Kiffin — who jilted Ole Miss for a rival to take his sixth coaching job in 15 years — have signed out of the portal.
Jan 6, 2026 – Sportsnet
Canadian safety Ty Benefield to transfer to LSU
Link: https://www.sportsnet.ca/ncaa-mens-football/article/canadian-safety-ty-benefield-to-transfer-to-lsu/
One of Canada’s top NCAA football players is going to play for a headline-making coach.
Safety Ty Benefield is transferring to LSU from Boise State, the Vancouver native announced Tuesday.
LSU’s new head coach is Lane Kiffin, who attracted a bidding war after leading Ole Miss to the College Football Playoff this season. Kiffin ultimately decided to jump to another Southeastern Conference (SEC) program, while Ole Miss has advanced to the CFP semifinals without him.
The SEC is one of the power four conferences in the NCAA, giving Benefield a much bigger platform heading into his NFL and CFL Draft year.
Boise State is in the smaller Mountain West Conference. Benefield helped Boise State reach the College Football Playoff last season before the squad captured its third conference title in a row this season.
Benefield was the defensive game MVP in this year’s conference title game and on the Mountain West’s first all-star team for the year.
Benefield, the son of former CFL star linebacker Daved Benefield,. has been one of five finalists for the Jon Cornish Trophy as the top Canadian in NCAA football the past two years.
Jan 6, 2026 – Yahoo Sports
Boise State transfer defensive back Ty Benefield commits to LSU
Link: https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/boise-state-transfer-defensive-back-170356755.html
Boise State transfer defensive back Ty Benefield has committed to LSU, On3 has learned. He just finished up his junior season with the Broncos, where he amassed 105 total tackles, two interceptions and a forced fumble.
Benefield played high school football at Santa Margarita Catholic (Rancho Santa Margarita, CA), where he was a three-star prospect. He was the No. 1376 overall recruit in the 2023 cycle, according to the Rivals Industry Ranking, a weighted algorithm that compiles all major recruiting media services.
The 2025-26 college football transfer portal will last 15 days, spanning from Jan. 2 to Jan. 16, the NCAA decided. While players have just over two weeks to enter the portal, they’re not under a deadline to commit when they enter. Traditionally, the cut-off for committing has been how late a school can enroll a player through admissions, so it varies throughout the sport.
Jan 7, 2026 – Hero Sports
College Football Transfer Portal: Elite Playmakers Going To LSU, Oklahoma State
Ty Benefield To LSU
Lane Kiffin is already adding several star players from the G6 going into his first season as LSU’s head coach. Former Boise State defensive back Ty Benefield is one of them.
Benefield was a first-team All-Mountain West selection and the Mountain West Championship Defensive MVP in 2025. He was an all-conference honorable mention the year prior.
This past season as a junior, he totaled 107 tackles, 8.5 tackles for loss, two interceptions, five passes defended, one forced fumble, and one fumble recovery. In 2024, he tallied 82 tackles, five TFLs, two interceptions, five passes defended, one forced fumble, and two fumble recoveries. In three seasons at Boise State, he has recorded 235 tackles, 18 TFLs, three sacks, five picks, and 16 passes defended.
It was possible Benefield, a four-star transfer prospect ranked 35th overall and is the second-best safety via 247Sports, pursued a professional career after the 2025 campaign. But instead, he’s heading to LSU, which is a great addition for the Tigers.
Jan 7, 2026 – Various
Online response to announcement
Jan 17, 2026 – SI.com
No surprises for Boise State as transfer portal closes
Read More – https://www.si.com/college/boise-state/football/no-surprises-for-boise-state-as-transfer-portal-closes
Boise State’s biggest portal loss was safety Ty Benefield, a senior-to-be who transferred to LSU. Benefield, a four-star portal prospect, is rated the No. 40 overall player and the No. 2 safety in the portal by 247Sports.
A first-team all-Mountain West selection last season, Benefield started all 14 games for the Broncos and led the team with 105 total tackles. He added three pass breakups, two interceptions, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery as Boise State captured a third straight MWC title en route to a 9-5 overall record.
Jan 19, 2026 – SI.com
Breaking Down Lane Kiffin’s No. 1 Ranked Transfer Portal Class for LSU Football
The Highest-Rated Signees:
- 5-Star QB Sam Leavitt
- 4-Star QB Husan Longstreet
- 4-Star S Ty Benefield
Jan 21, 2026 – SI.com
LSU Football’s Transfer Portal Class Entering Rare Territory With Historic Feat
Lane Kiffin and Co. are rewriting the history books on the recruiting trail, entering rare territory amid dominant stretch.
Jan 21, 2026 – Twitter
LSU Tops 2026 Portal Class
Jan 26, 2026 – LSU TigersWire
LSU football’s top five ranked transfer portlal additions on defense
Ty Benefield, Safety
Hailing from Boise State, Benefield is the No. 65 overall prospect and No. 3 ranked safety in the transfer portal. Benefield brings a wealth of experience to LSU’s secondary and played 846 snaps with the Broncos in 2025.
Benefield is versatile. He will see reps at LSU’s STAR position, voided by Harold Perkins. Don’t be surprised if he plays safety, too.
Jan 28, 2026 – ON 3 – Paywalled
Film Analysis – Ty Benefield’s potential to elevate LSU
Jan 29, 2026
Lane Kiffin’s debut LSU transfer class continues to earn high praise
Jan 29, 2026 – SI
LSU Football Believes This Transfer Portal Addition Can Elevate Lane Kiffin’s Tigers
Boise State safety Ty Benefield signed with the LSU Tigers in January where he checks in as the No. 2 rated safety in the Transfer Portal with Kiffin and Co. boosting the secondary instantly after landing his services.
The 6-foot-2, 204-pounder received interest from a myriad of schools once officially in the Transfer Portal with LSU beating out the likes of the Oregon Ducks throughout his process.
Benefield logged 105 total tackles, 69 total tackles, 3 pass breakups, 2 interceptions and 1 forced fumble across the 2025 season for his Broncos squad.
He stuffed the stat sheet routinely with the Broncos last season, but it’s his versatility and surefire tackling ability that will give the Bayou Bengals a boost in 2026.
Benefield has the opportunity to be an instant impact transfer for the LSU defense with the makings of being an X-factor across a rigorous SEC slate in 2026 for the Bayou Bengals.
LSU inked the No. 1 Transfer Portal Class with Benefield checking in as one of the nine Top-100 signees.
The Top-100 Signees:
– No. 1: QB Sam Leavitt
– No. 4: OL Jordan Seaton
– No. 5: EDGE Princewill Umanmielen
– No. 21: QB Husan Longstreet
– No. 40: S Ty Benefield
– No. 55: WR Eugene Wilson
– No. 59: EDGE Jordan Ross
– No. 79: IOL Devin Harper
– No. 95: WR Jayce Brown
Feb 4, 2026 – The Advertiser
Why Lane Kiffin thinks LSU football signed best transfer portal class
The top-rated transfer portal quarterback in Sam Leavitt from Arizona State, the top-ranked offensive lineman in Jordan Seaton from Colorado, the highest-rated edge rusher in Ole Miss‘ Princewell Umanmielen and the second-highest ranked safety in Ty Benefield from Boise State headline LSU’s portal class. No other college team was able to land as many No. 1-ranked transfers at their respective positions than Kiffin and LSU.
Feb 9, 2026 – USA Today
3 things to know about LSU football transfer safety Ty Benefield
Benefield can play physical football.
Benefield is versatile.
Benefield brings more experience to LSU’s defense.
Feb 10, 2026 – SI
Four Boise State transfer portal departures land with Power Four programs
The Broncos had two starters sign with SEC programs: safety Ty Benefield (LSU) and wide receiver Chris Marshall (Arkansas).
Benefield started all 14 games for the Broncos last season and received first-team all-Mountain West honors. He led the team with 105 total tackles while also recording three pass breakups, two interceptions, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery.
The 6-foot-2, 205-pound Benefield was rated a four-star transfer portal prospect by 247Sports. Benefield was 247Sports’ No. 40 overall portal player and No. 2 safety.
Benefield has one year of eligibility remaining.
Feb 26, 2026 – Essentially Sports
Four BoiseNot Sam Leavitt or Jordan Seaton, Lane Kiffin’s Defensive Star Named LSU’s Standout Incoming Transfer
Benefield represents the high-impact, under-the-radar side of Kiffin’s portal strategy. Yet, assembling a 40-man transfer class also required unprecedented financial power, placing LSU at the forefront of the NIL spending race.
Back in 2025, LSU had one of the best safety units in college football, featuring A.J. Haulcy. But after his move to the NFL, the team needed an immediate replacement. They did return two talented players, Tamarcus Cooley and Dashawn Spears. But Ty Benefield’s presence is creating the most impact because of the talent and production he brought with him.
His on-field excellence is reflected in his accolades, the Mountain West Championship MVP in 2025, and he appeared on back-to-back All-Conference teams in 2024 and 2025. What’s interesting is that he is the same guy who was once ranked outside the top 1,300 in Rivals’ 2023 recruiting class rankings.
As spring practice approaches, all eyes will be on Benefield to see if his standout winter workouts translate to on-field dominance. Now, with a talented portal addition, Lane Kiffin is also ruling the NIL market.
March 6, 2026 – LSU Wire
CBS Sports says LSU football transfer has superstar potential
LSU is one of the most interesting teams in college football heading into 2026, with a new-look roster led by arguably the biggest name in the sport, Lane Kiffin. This roster is so compelling largely because of the talent within the Tigers’ 40-player transfer class, headlined by three top-ranked portal recruits: quarterback Sam Leavitt (no. 1), offensive tackle Jordan Seaton (no. 4), and edge rusher Princewill Umanmielen (no. 5).
The Tigers’ class remained strong even beyond these top-ranked signings. Kiffin and his staff added depth and talent all throughout the roster, and CBS Sports highlighted one such transfer in an article published Thursday morning.
This piece lists 13 players that college football insiders “expect to take the sport by storm” in 2026, featuring several potential Heisman Trophy winners like Texas Tech’s Brendan Sorsby, Notre Dame’s CJ Carr, and Indiana’s Josh Hoover. And among these highly-touted players sits a lesser-known transfer out of Boise State: LSU’s new safety, Ty Benefield.
Benefield recorded 175 tackles, 18 tackles for loss, 10 pass breakups, and five interceptions during his three seasons as a Bronco, earning first-team All-Mountain West Honors in 2025. This stellar start to his career was reflected in his transfer ranking, coming in as the No. 2 safety and No. 40 overall player in the portal, according to 247Sports.
March 8, 2026 – LSU Wire
Picking LSU football’s X-factor at every position in 2026
Safety — Ty Benefield
LSU is losing AJ Haulcy to the NFL, but the Tigers’ safety room looks strong. The addition of Boise State transfer Ty Benefield is a big reason why. Benefield brings a wealth of experience to LSU’s secondary and was a member of a College Football Playoff team in 2025.
Benefield can play in the box and has the athletic tools to win in coverage. LSU DC Blake Baker values flexibility at the safety position and the addition of Benefield will keep the entire playbook open in 2026.
March 9, 2026 – SI
LSU Football Transfer Addition Generating Significant Buzz Amid Strong Offseason
But there’s one Transfer Portal addition that continues generating buzz after checking in with multiple sources: Boise State safety Ty Benefield.
He stuffed the stat sheet routinely with the Broncos last season, but it’s his versatility and surefire tackling ability that will give the Bayou Bengals a boost in 2026.
Defensive coordinator Blake Baker’s scheme will give Benefield the opportunity to shine at the safety position, but the STAR role is where he can thrive closer to the line of scrimmage.
Benefield is a big-bodied, physical defensive back that has the chance to explode in LSU’s system across the 2026 season.
Now, as offseason workouts continue leading into Spring Camp on March 24, Benefield remains a name that has received rave reviews ahead of the 2026 campaign in Baton Rouge.
March 11, 2026 – SI
LSU Football Spring Camp Depth Chart: Predicting Lane Kiffin’s Starters on Defense
Safety:
Projected Starters: Tamarcus Cooley, Dashawn Spears, Ty Benefield
Depth: Faheem Delane, CJ Jimcoily, Jhase Thomas, Treylan James, Mason Dossett
Freshmen: Aiden Hall, Isaiah Washington
We’re placing Benefield in the safety category here – but the expectation is that he could slide down to the STAR along with Spears or Cooley.
March 18, 2026 – SI
LSU Football’s Top Transfer Safety Receiving Rave Reviews Amid Massive Offseason
Lane Kiffin and Co. are less than one week away from Spring Camp, one transfer defensive back turning heads.
There’s one addition that remains the talk of offseason workouts: Boise State safety Ty Benefield.
The No. 2 transfer safety logged 105 tackles, 3 PBUs + 2 INT last fall. pic.twitter.com/WcIjZn9QGa— Zack Nagy (@znagy20) March 18, 2026
The 6-foot-2, 204-pounder received interest from a myriad of schools once officially in the Transfer Portal with LSU beating out the likes of the Oregon Ducks throughout his process.
New: I asked sources who has stood out most since Lane Kiffin’s Transfer Portal haul arrived at LSU.
Could be workouts, film study, “first off the bus” candidates, etc.
A name included every time: Boise State transfer safety Ty Benefield…
Benefield is a player that can be a weapon on defensive coordinator Blake Baker’s unit as both a safety or at the STAR role – where Harold Perkins played in 2025.
Now, as the offseason continues – and Spring Camp inches closer – Benefield remains a player sources have spoken highly of after signing as the No. 2 rated safety in the NCAA Transfer Portal.
March 23, 2026 – SI
‘I absolutely did not see him leaving here;’ Boise State’s Spencer Danielson on star safety transferring to LSU
Boise State head coach Spencer Danielson admitted that he was surprised by star safety Ty Benefield’s decision to enter the transfer portal and leave the Broncos for LSU and first-year head coach Lane Kiffin.
“I absolutely did not see him leaving here,” Danielson said during Monday’s press conference. “I thought it was either going pro or staying, that was our conversations all the way up. Broke my heart that he left. He is a son to me and I will love him forever and I wish him nothing but the best, and I miss Ty.”
March 24, 2026 – SI
The Eye-Catchers: LSU Football Opens Spring Camp With Multiple Tigers Turning Heads
No. 1: S Ty Benefield
Boise State safety Ty Benefield remains the talk of the town across offseason workouts with significant intrigue coming during Spring Camp beginning next week.
The 6-foot-2, 204-pounder received interest from a myriad of schools once officially in the Transfer Portal with LSU beating out the likes of the Oregon Ducks throughout his process.
Benefield logged 105 total tackles, 69 total tackles, 3 pass breakups, 2 interceptions and 1 forced fumble across the 2025 season for his Broncos squad where he quickly generated interest from multiple powerhouse schools.
On Day 1, his fluidity was what stood out most at the safety position with Kiffin labeling him as an “ultra elite” player after practice.
March 24 2026 – Saturday Blitz
Lane Kiffin labels Boise State transfer ‘ultra elite’ after first LSU practice
Benefield – the No. 2 rated safety in the Transfer Portal – remains the talk of the town this offseason.
Now, he receives the stamp of approval from Kiffin.
The Tigers time on the field wasn’t the first time that Ty Benefield picked up high praise from his new coaching staff. From the moment Benefield arrived on campus, reports started to emerge about just how impressive he was throughout offseason workouts.
March 24, 2026 – ND Insider
Why Jeremiyah Love never lost a fumble for Notre Dame football
Except for that one time . . .
In 498 career touches over the past three seasons, the projected top 10 NFL Draft pick fumbled exactly once. That happened on the fourth play of the game last Oct. 4 in a home win over Boise State.
Love, driving off tackle on a second-and-13 carry from the Irish 41, fell forward onto his own fumble for a gain of 3 yards.
“I actually met with the (New York) Jets this morning, and they asked me about how many times I fumbled in my Notre Dame career,” Love said Tuesday, March 24 at Notre Dame’s Pro Day. “I said ‘One time. It was against Boise State.’ I didn’t lose it, but it did come out.”
Ty Benefield, the former Boise State safety who has since transferred to LSU, was credited with the forced fumble. The all-Mountain West first-team selection is listed at 6-foot-2 and 205 pounds.
Benefield was LSU’s first defensive signing out of a transfer portal haul that eventually brought 40 new players to Baton Rouge for Brian Kelly’s replacement, former Mississippi coach Lane Kiffin.
March 25, 2026 – LSU Wire – SI
Lane Kiffin highlights three LSU players with “ultra elite” skills
LSU football’s roster is full of talented players with bright NFL futures. But head coach Lane Kiffin chose to highlight three with what Kiffin deemed “ultra elite” skills.
When speaking with reporters on Tuesday, Kiffin name-dropped TE Trey’Dez Green, OT Jordan Seaton, and S Ty Benefield.
“(Trey’Dez Green) is ultra elite okay, but so is his mindset, and that’s really, really unique to have because they usually don’t coincide,” Kiffin said.
“Ty (Benefield) the safety has it, too, and Jordan (Seaton) seems to have it,” Kiffin said.
March 26, 2026 – LSY Sports on YouTube
Ty Benefield Post Practice Media Availability – 3/26/2026
Read More: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OA9cUWHUZlA
You really bring the pain.
March 26, 2026 – GEAUX 247
12 quotes that stood out at LSU player spring interviews – What Whit Weeks, Trey’Dez Green, Ty Benefield and Jordan Seaton had to say to open up spring practice.
White Weeks on Who is stepping up from a leadership perspective on the defense
“A lot of dudes. I love our portal class. It’s just a lot of fun to be around them, but a name that really sticks out is Ty Benfield, the safety. I mean, he’s awesome. He’s a baller. But football aside, he’s just a great person. I love being around him. He’s fun to be with. Another dude who’s really stepped up in my mind is P. J. Woodland. I mean, he’s making plays left and right all throughout OTAs and now into spring ball.”
Ty Benefield on Why he chose to enter the portal and land at LSU
“Ultimately, the decision came down to putting myself in the best position, putting my family more so in the best position, as well as this culture being a winning culture and winning tradition school. The staff also being the way they are, how our head coach puts his guys in the best positions to succeed and the standard that he holds them at. So those were some of the reasons. I can’t name them all because there’s a lot, but those are some of the main reasons for sure.
“I feel that it’s only right to make a decision like that fast for your other school, especially if you’re a big impact player, because it allows them time to figure things out rather than leaving them kind of trying to figure out whatever late. So yeah, it was a difficult decision, but it had to be fast.”
April 4, 2026 – Fox8Live
Boise State transfer Ty Benefield starting day 1 for LSU at safety
Read More: https://www.fox8live.com/2026/04/04/boise-state-transfer-ty-benefield-starting-day-1-lsu-safety/
NEW ORLEANS (WVUE) – One of the big additions for LSU through the transfer portal, Boise State safety Ty Benefield. Only one practice into spring ball, Lane Kiffin singled him out along with Trey’Dez Green and Jordan Seaton.
“Ty the safety, he has it too. Jordan (Seaton) has it too, singling out those three guys (also alluding to Trey’Dez Green). If you were scout out there (at practice), watching those three guys, would stand out from a skillset of ultra elite,” said LSU head coach Lane Kiffin.
Benefield racked up 107 tackles last season in Boise. He’s known as a hard hitting defender, but that wasn’t always the case in his younger years.
“When I was younger, I was never a hitter. I started off as a quarterback. What’s funny, I always used to avoid contact. What changed in my life was definitely high school. I had some life changing events. It kid of shaped me into the man I am today. But it also helped me breakdown that barrier of contact. Every tackle that I approach is with relentless effort, and knowing I got to make this play for my teammates,” said Ty Benefield.
April 4, 2026 – Fox8Live
Football, Fútbol, Food: Possible LSU starting lineup after two weeks of spring ball
DEFENSE
DT: Dominick McKinley, Stephiylan Green, Malik Blocton, Deuce Geralds, Richard Anderson
EDGE: Princewill Umanmielen, Jordan Ross
LB: Whit Weeks, TJ Dottery
CB: PJ Woodland, DJ Pickett
Strong safety: Ty Benefield
Star: Deshawn Spears
Free Safety: Tamarcus Cooley
April 11, 2026 – LSU on SI
LSU Football Spring Camp Intel: True Freshmen Emerging, Transfers Turning Heads
The Spring Camp Buzz: Week 3 Edition
No. 1: The Rising Star – Ty Benefield
Benefield signed with the LSU Tigers as the No. 2 rated safety in the NCAA Transfer Portal – inking a deal with LSU after Kiffin and Co. rolled out the red carpet for the electrifying defensive back that is already becoming a household name.
The 6-foot-3, 208-pounder is coming off of a 2025 campaign at Boise State where he logged 105 total tackles, 69 total tackles, 3 pass breakups, 2 interceptions and 1 forced fumble where he put his name on the map.
Following the strong season, Benefield hit the free agent matket with multiple suitors eyeing his services – namely the LSU Tigers and Oregon Ducks – but a visit to Baton Rouge sealed the deal.
“Ultimately, the decision came down to putting myself in the best position, putting my family more so in the best position, as well as this culture being a winning culture and winning tradition school,” Benefield said on Thursday following Day 2 of Spring Camp.
“The staff also being the way they are, how our head coach puts his guys in the best positions to succeed and the standard that he holds them at. So those were some of the reasons. I can’t name them all because there’s a lot, but those are some of the main reasons for sure.
The CBS Sports Evaluation: Buzz Brewing in The Boot…
“Benefield was one of the top transfers in the cycle for a reason. A three-year starter at Boise State, he arrives at LSU as a plug-and-play addition for coordinator Blake Baker and a defense that returns just three starters,” CBS Sports wrote.
“Benefield ranked as the No. 2 transfer safety in the country by 247Sports after earning first-team All-Mountain West honors in 2025, when he led Boise State with 107 total tackles.
April 11, 2026 – CBS Sports
College football’s most experienced players in 2026: Penn State’s Rocco Becht leads among QBs
Ty Benefield, S, LSU
Career snaps: 2,094
Benefield was one of the top transfers in the cycle for a reason. A three-year starter at Boise State, he arrives at LSU as a plug-and-play addition for coordinator Blake Baker and a defense that returns just three starters. Benefield ranked as the No. 2 transfer safety in the country by 247Sports after earning first-team All-Mountain West honors in 2025, when he led Boise State with 107 total tackles. He enters 2026 having started 28 consecutive games, bringing proven production and experience to the back end of LSU’s defense.
April 12, 2026 – SI.com
Elite LSU Football Transfer Addition Generating Major Buzz Amid Breakout Offseason
Lane Kiffin and Co. continue receiving rave reviews on a talented defensive back, expected to make massive impact in 2026.
Lane Kiffin and the LSU Tigers assembled the No. 1 Transfer Portal Class in America this offseason headlined by nine Top-100 players putting pen to paper with the program.
In what became chaotic stretch in the Bayou State, Kiffin and Co. opened up their checkbooks in order to ink the top players in the free agent market, including Boise State transfer Ty Benefield.
Benefield checked in as the No. 2 rated safety in the NCAA Transfer Portal where he landed a deal with LSU following a visit to Baton Rouge in January.
The 6-foot-3, 208-pounder is fresh off of a 2025 campaign where he totaled 105 tackles, 69 total tackles, 3 pass breakups, 2 interceptions and 1 forced fumble where he put his name on the map.
From there, he emerged as one of the top players in the Transfer Portal with the LSU Tigers adding him to the 2026 roster in what became a massive move ahead of Kiffin’s inaugural season in Baton Rouge.
“Ultimately, the decision came down to putting myself in the best position, putting my family more so in the best position, as well as this culture being a winning culture and winning tradition school,” Benefield said this offseason.
April 14, 2026 – College Net Worth
LSU Tigers Secure Top Transfer Ty Benefield for 2026 Season
Read More: https://www.collegenetworth.com/lsu-tigers-secure-top-transfer-ty-benefield-for-2026-season/
In a move that’s got the college football world buzzing, Lane Kiffin and the LSU Tigers have landed the No. 1 Transfer Portal Class in America this offseason. The group includes nine Top-100 players, with Ty Benefield—a highly-rated safety from Boise State—standing out as the headline addition.
Key Addition: Ty Benefield
Ty Benefield, among all the new faces, really stands out for LSU’s defense. He was the No. 2 rated safety in the NCAA Transfer Portal and decided to commit to LSU after a January visit to Baton Rouge.
Benefield is 6-foot-3, 208 pounds, and just wrapped up a strong 2025 season at Boise State. He racked up 105 tackles, 69 of them solo, along with 3 pass breakups, 2 interceptions, and a forced fumble.
Several things drew Benefield to LSU—he liked the program’s winning culture and saw a chance to play for coaches who know how to put their players in great spots. He said, *Ultimately, the decision came down to putting myself in the best position, putting my family more so in the best position, as well as this culture being a winning culture and winning tradition school.*
April 15, 2026 – Tiger Rag.com
LSU Spring Practice Report – April 16: Ty Benefield, Winston Watkins Lead The Way
On the very next play, Longstreet was intercepted again, this time by senior safety Ty Benefield, who made a strong play in the end zone on a slightly overthrown deep ball. Benefield continues to stand out as one of the most productive players this spring.
LSU later moved into a 7-on-7 period. Benefield recorded his second interception of the day, jumping a comeback route after reading Longstreet’s throw.
April 19, 2026 – NFL Mock Draft Database
NFL Mock Draft Profile for Ty Benefield
Read More: https://www.nflmockdraftdatabase.com/players/2027/ty-benefield#google_vignette
April 24, 2026 – KIDO Talk Radio
Boise State Faces Tough Road As Top Talent Transfers Away
It was only a matter of time before the new laws of college football negatively impacted America’s favorite underdog, the Boise State Broncos.
The football team lost one of the most elite players in the country, Ty Benefield. The talented former Bronco left the team for the big-money world of LSU Football and coach Lane Kiffin.
His move to Baton Rouge was so big that it was covered here on local television. Boise State lost a team leader who started 28 games and recorded 107 tackles.
Read More: The Challenge Of Retaining Players At Boise State University
April 26, 2024 – CBS Sports
The 2026 NFL Draft is over — but the 2027 class might be even better: 32 future stars to know
Read More: https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2027-nfl-draft-prospects-32-future-stars-could-top-2026/
22. Ty Benefield, S, LSU
Ty Benefield is a big-time player who likely would have been a Day 2 pick this year. He shows excellent range and recorded over 100 tackles at Boise State, along with two interceptions and three PBUs. He should make a major impact in the LSU secondary.
April 20, Yahoo Sports
Nagy’s Notes: Three LSU Football Spring Camp Winners in Lane Kiffin’s First Offseason
Read More: https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/nagys-notes-three-lsu-football-151219401.html
No. 1: OL Bo Bordelon
No. 2: S Ty Benefield
LSU safety Ty Benefield has been the clearcut, definitive winner this offseason after transferring in from Boise State after a strong 2025 campaign with the Broncos.
The 6-foot-3, 208-pounder is fresh off of a 2025 season where he totaled 105 tackles, 69 total tackles, 3 pass breakups, 2 interceptions and 1 forced fumble where he put his name on the map.
“Ultimately, the decision came down to putting myself in the best position, putting my family more so in the best position, as well as this culture being a winning culture and winning tradition school,” Benefield said this offseason.
“The staff also being the way they are, how our head coach puts his guys in the best positions to succeed and the standard that he holds them at. So those were some of the reasons. I can’t name them all because there’s a lot, but those are some of the main reasons for sure.
Benefield has the chance to breakout in 2026 at both the safety role – as well as the STAR spot – with his versatility on full display.
April 23, 2026 – Louisiana Sports dot net
Tiger QBs, offense ascending as spring closes
“It’s hard to mentally lock in when you’re not practicing,” Kiffin said. “You know, you see when we hold Ty (Benefield out of) periods how great he does over there coaching other players and locked in. Sam’s got to do that the whole day long, and he does a really good job of that because it’s more than just what you guys see. It’s meetings, it’s walkthroughs in the morning. So, really pleased with him that he’s doing.”
April 24, 2026 – Saturday Blitz
Way-Too-Early 2027 NFL Mock Draft: Arch Manning goes No. 1, Jeremiah Smith not far behind
19. New York Jets (Via Dallas): Ty Benefield – Safety – LSU
If Ty Benefield had declared for the 2026 NFL Draft, he would’ve been a Day 2 selection, but he opted to transfer to LSU. This Spring, all reports are that Ty Benefield has taken his game to another level, and with his size and skill, he could play his way into being a 1st Round pick. If Aaron Glenn remains the Jets head coach, he could serve a very similar role to the one we saw Brian Branch play in his Detroit defense.
April 25, 2026 – MSN.com
Three biggest winners from LSU spring football
TY BENEFIELD, SR, S
Benefield plays at a little different speed than a lot of the players out there. He’s so fluid in his individual drills and has a knack for being around the ball.
Kiffin singled him out very early with Jordan Seaton and Trey’Dez Green as players with immense talent and a great work ethic.
Between Whit Weeks, Davhon Keys, TJ Dottery and Benefield, LSU has guys all over the field who could lead the SEC in tackles. Dottery and Weeks have done it, and Keys was second. Benefield may out-tackle them all. He’s also a threat to play the ball in the air.
If I had to pencil one LSU player for the All-SEC team come December, Benefield is my pick. He’s primed for a monster year.
April 26 – The Score
Early 2027 NFL Mock Draft: The race for Arch … again
Ty to Houston Texans
Read more: https://www.thescore.com/nfl/news/3522105/early-2027-nfl-mock-draft-the-race-for-arch-again
April 28 2026 – CBS Sports
2027 vs. 2026 NFL Draft class: Who has the better prospect at every position?
Safety: Ty Benefield (LSU) vs. Caleb Downs (Ohio State)
I went back and forth between Georgia’s KJ Bolden a and Benefield, the Boise transfer, but ultimately went with Benefield’s more prototypical safety traits.
It doesn’t matter either way, because neither hold a candle to Downs, whose tape as a true freshman was better than these players’ as sophomores and juniors.
April 29, 2026 – LSU Tigers Wire
LSU football safety tabbed a first-round pick in early 2027 mock draft
The hype continues to build for LSU football safety Ty Benefield. The Athletic’s Dane Brugler released an early 2027 NFL mock draft, just days after the 2026 draft came to an end, and Benefield was a first-round pick.
Brugler slots Benefield as the No. 26 overall pick, heading to the Kansas City Chiefs.
“Boise State transfer, Benefield is a tall, long defender who topped 100 tackles last season, while making plays both downhill and in reverse,” Brugler wrote.
It’s worth noting that mock drafts this early in advance are close to a guessing game. We don’t know the draft order, and we don’t know the team’s needs. Mocks at this point in the year have more to do with projecting the overall quality of the player.
But even if it’s an inexact science, Brugler is one of the best in the business. Brugler’s opinion of Benefield aligns with what LSU fans have heard throughout the spring. LSU head coach Lane Kiffin hasn’t been shy of praising Benefield, calling the transfer defensive back “ultra-elite.
Benefield figures to be a key part of LSU’s defense this fall.
April 29, 2026 – Arrowhead Addict
Chiefs early 2027 mock draft prediction raises one clear concern
Mock drafts are mostly pointless, but early 2027 editions can at least tell us something about the Chiefs.
The first noteworthy point in Brugler’s 2027 mock draft is that the Chiefs have the No. 26 overall selection in this draft order. That’s a sign that last year was viewed as a fluke for the most part, while hedging that K.C. is also not going to be crowned before the season as Super Bowl favorites after watching the team stumble out of the gate in 2025.
As for the prospect chosen, Brugler has the Chiefs going with LSU defensive back Ty Benefield, who has been a playmaker in the secondary for Boise State for the last three seasons, with 107 total tackles last season and 5 career interceptions. This year, his transfer to LSU provides him a chance to prove his mettle in SEC play.
Here’s what Brugler had to say: “A Boise State transfer, Benefield is a tall, long defender who topped 100 tackles last season, while making plays both downhill and in reverse.”
As for the pick from a team perspective, it would make sense for Kansas City to look heavily at safety going forward knowing how important the position is in the long run. Chamarri Conner will be scheduled to hit free agency, and it’s wishful thinking to believe that Jaden Hicks will have broken out. Perhaps fourth-round pick Jadon Canady is taking reps at free safety instead of slot corner due to Kader Kohou’s presence, but it’s more likely that the Chiefs will need someone starting next to Alohi Gilman.
One other note: the Chiefs love their defensive backs from LSU (as they should). From Tyrann Mathieu’s leadership and impact in Steve Spagnuolo’s first few years to the trade up to grab Delane, it definitely doesn’t hurt Benefield to have the jersey on this season.
April 29, 2026 – Sports Yahoo
LSU Tigers Safety Ty Benefield Highlighted As ‘Under-the-Radar’ Player
When a team like the LSU Tigers takes a lot of big swings and changes around most of their roster, some players are sure to get lost in the fold.
ESPN’s college football staff just went through their top-25 rankings, where the Tigers currently sit at No. 11, and highlighted one “under-the-radar” player for each team. For LSU, it was incoming Boise State Broncos transfer safety Ty Benefield.
Benefield is a 6-foot-3, 208-pound safety who is following in the footsteps of Mansoor Delane and AJ Haulcy. He is already well-respected around the country and probably would have been drafted somewhat early if he stayed, but coming to Baton Rouge will give him a chance to take his stock to the next level.
He’s an interesting pick for an “under-the-radar” player, given that everyone knows he’s a good player and the expectations are high for him in particular. Still, it has sort of been overlooked just how good of an addition someone like Benefield is, when they added several players ranked way ahead of him in transfer portal rankings.
Top players in flashy positions will always get more headlines. Quarterback Sam Leavitt, left tackle Jordan Seaton and edge defender Princewill Umanmielen have gotten most of the hype this offseason. Benefield is just as valuable at safety as any of them are at their positions, though.
Through his three years with the Broncos (really two and a half of real snaps), Benefield has picked up 235 tackles with three sacks, 18.0 TFLs, five interceptions, 12 passes broken up and two forced fumbles.
The defensive back lines up all over the secondary and can make an impact from wherever. He’ll be another versatile piece who will move around the field, similar to his Tiger teammates. Blake Baker is going to have a field day drawing up different ways to use these players. On a down-to-down basis, though, Benefield will mostly be filling the void left behind by Haulcy.
Read More: https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/lsu-tigers-safety-ty-benefield-211144909.html
April 29, 2026 – Saturday Down South
ESPN names under-the-radar player for LSU entering 2026 season
The LSU Tigers are entering a bold new era under head coach Lane Kiffin.
The Tigers have spent a ton of money on the 2026 roster, so the pressure to produce results will be intense and immediate. Nearly every position group on the field has received reinforcements.
Of course, there are high-profile additions like QB Sam Leavitt, who comes to Baton Rouge from Arizona State. But there are also some guys flying under the radar.
On Wednesday, ESPN released its list of under-the-radar players for each of the top 25 teams, and analyst Andrea Adelson picked safety Ty Benefield as LSU’s representative:
Under-the-radar player: S Ty Benefield. Granted, Benefield was among the top additions Lane Kiffin made through the portal, but he did not generate as much buzz as Sam Leavitt or Princewill Umanmielen. Early in spring, Kiffin praised Benefield as having an “ultra-elite” skill set and mindset, and that should serve him well as he makes the transition to the Power 4 level. The 6-foot-3, 208-pound safety from Boise State started 33 games for the Broncos — including 28 straight — and was the first defensive player to commit to Kiffin out of the portal. LSU has several holes to fill in the defensive backfield, so his addition is huge for a unit looking for experience and consistency.
Benefield joins a defensive backfield that features budding star DJ Pickett. Kiffin managed to keep DC Blake Baker on his first LSU staff, too, which was huge. Now we’ll see if the LSU defense can become an elite unit in 2026.
April 29, 2026 – Niners Wire – USA Today
49ers make stunning 1st-round selection in early 2027 mock draft
The San Francisco 49ers should’ve done more to address their safety group this offseason after a mediocre showing and Jason Pinnock’s departure in free agency.
However, after the 2026 NFL draft, the only safeties they’ve added have been Patrick McMorris and undrafted free agent Jalen Stroman.
With the position likely being a need again next offseason, Pro Football Focus’ Daire Carragher is already projecting that the 49ers will take LSU safety Ty Benefield in the first round of the 2027 NFL draft.
“The Boise State transfer already has a significant sample size, with 2,169 career snaps in college football,” Carragher wrote. “He must improve his tackling efficiency — an 18.1% career missed-tackle rate — but his versatility to align across the defense gives him significant upside as he transitions to SEC play.”
Benefield was a three-star recruit out of Crean Lutheran High School in Irvine, California, before spending three seasons at Boise State, where he earned All-Mountain West honors once. In 41 games for the Broncos, he recorded 235 tackles (18 for a loss), 12 passes defensed, five interceptions, three sacks, three fumble recoveries and two forced fumbles.Expert NFL picks: Exclusive betting insights only at USA TODAY.
The 20-year-old entered the transfer portal this offseason and landed at LSU, where he’ll either cement himself as a first-round prospect or drop in the projections.
April 30, 2026 – ON SI
LSU Football Offseason Intel: Predicting the Tigers’ Depth Chart After Spring Camp
Lane’s Take [on Trey’Dez Green]: “Well, his skill set is ultra-elite. But so is his mindset. That’s really, really unique to have because they usually don’t coincide. Ty [Benefield] the safety has it too, and Jordan [Seaton] seems to have it, not just singling out those three guys, but if you were a scout out there watching, you know those three guys would stand out from a skill set of ultra elite.
Predicting the Starters on Defense
Safeties:
– Ty Benefield AND Tamarcus Cooley
May 1, 2026 – LSU Tigers ON SI
One Transfer Who Will Help Ease NFL Draft Losses for LSU Football
LSU’s Next Safety, Ty Benefield
Luckily for the Tigers, it wasn’t too hard. Boise State transfer Ty Benefield has proven to be the clear choice through spring practices. In watching him throughout spring, he’s clearly set apart. He’s taller, faster and bigger than everyone else in the safety room.
Lane Kiffin sees this. But he sees more off the field, too. He compared Benefield to Trey’Dez Green and Jordan Seaton, who are expected to be two of LSU’s most impactful offensive players.
“Well, his skill set is ultra-elite, but so is his mindset. That’s really, really unique to have because they usually don’t coincide,” Kiffin said about Green. “Ty, the safety, has it too … if you were a scout out there watching, you know those three guys would stand out from a skill set of ultra elite. What the scout doesn’t know just by watching is how they work and their mindset.”
Kiffin is right. In his own scouting of Benefield, he and his staff saw something that set him apart before he even arrived on campus, as he is just one of four defensive backs to transfer into the program known as “DBU.”
What they saw was a player who stood at 6-foot-3 and appeared in all but one game across three seasons at Boise State. His career as a Bronco ended with being named the Mountain West Championship Game’s defensive MVP and earning back-to-back first-team All-Mountain West honors in 2024 and 2025.
Benefield played 355 snaps in man coverage in 2025, fitting directly into Blake Baker’s defense, which asks its safeties to play man coverage, allowing LSU to get creative with its blitzes up front. But he also played over 300 snaps in the box last season.
The Mountain West indeed isn’t the SEC, but Benefield’s “ultra-elite” work ethic has proven to be universal.
May 3, 2026 – LSU Tigers on USA Today
LSU football’s defense will be the best in the SEC in 2026
ESPN’s SP+ projections, one of the top ratings systems in college football, ranked LSU’s defense No. 2 in the country in the initial preseason rankings released earlier this year. The only unit projected to be better is Ohio State’s defense.
Some fans may raise their eyebrows at that projection. LSU is losing key difference makers in the secondary, including Mansoor Delane, a top-10 pick in the NFL Draft. Safety AJ Haulcy is off to the next level and LSU lost both starting defensive ends.
But look at what’s coming back. Delane is gone, but LSU returns cornerback DJ Pickett, a former five-star who is a budding star. Corner PJ Woodland returns, too, after a breakout 2025. Losing Haulcy hurts, but LSU added one of the top safeties in the transfer portal with the arrival of Ty Benefield.
Benefield will play next to TaMarcus Cooley, a veteran safety who impressed in his first campaign with the Tigers last fall.
May 4, 2026 – CTV News
Canadian safety Ty Benefield joins LSU Tigers
Your Morning Vancouver sits down with football safety Ty Benefield to chat about his journey from growing up in Vancouver to playing in the Unites States.
Read More: https://www.ctvnews.ca/vancouver/video/2026/05/04/canadian-safety-ty-benefield-joins-lsu-tigers/
May 6, 2026 – LSU on SI
2 Answers, 2 Lingering Questions About LSU’s Depth Chart After Spring Camp
Is There Enough Depth?
The Tigers’ defense in spring ball proved one thing for sure: the first 11 are good. Which isn’t just good, that’s great. That gives fans, players and defensive coordinator Blake Baker some security. But unfortunately, that can’t be the stopping point. The defense still needs to figure out reliable replacements when injuries present themselves.
With the impressive recruiting class Kiffin cooked up in the offseason, the Tigers bring on notable defensive players, such as No. 3-ranked defensive lineman Deuce Geralds, safety Ty Benefield, who has been recognized as a rising star this spring and of course, the No. 1 player in America and huge defensive addition, Lamar Brown.
June 22, 2026 – MSN.com
2027 NFL Mock Draft: Way too early top 25 first-round picks by CBS
June 22, 2026 – College Football.gg
Link: https://collegefootball.gg/players/ty-benefield/
July 16, 2026 – 247 Sports
The Eye-Catchers: Five LSU transfer additions that have emerged as offseason standouts
NO. 5: S TY BENEFIELD
https://247sports.com/playersport/ty-benefield-at-lsu-367209/embed
It would be unfair to keep Benefield off of this list with sources raving about what’s to come across the 2026 season from the Boise State Broncos transfer.
Benefield made his way to Baton Rouge with 187 tackles over the last two seasons as a defensive back that has the ability to diagnose plays before they happen – where he loves sticking his face in the fan against the run.
Now, he’s already winning over both the coaching staff and players with LSU linebacker Whit Weeksrecently raving about Benefield during an appearance on “In The Bayou With Tyrann Mathieu“.
“The biggest standout to me so far has been Ty Benefield – the safety. That dude is a baller. You’ll love to watch him play, for sure,” Weeks said.
Then, Kiffin chimed in:
“As soon as I was thinking about you [Tyrann Mathieu] being here today, I said, ‘Get Ty up here because I think Ty is going to be one of those legends to play here,” Kiffin also added during his episode with Mathieu.
“He’s wired right, he’s got unbelievable range, great ball skills, and I said you have to get him up here to meet you to just connect it.”
All eyes are on Benefield this fall with expectations rising for the elite defensive back ahead of his first season in Baton Rouge.
July 20, 2026 – LSU Football on Instagram
11 LSU football players join Nike’s Blue Ribbon Elite NIL program
BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) — Over 10 LSU football players were featured on Nike’s Blue Ribbon Elite Football roster.
According to LSU Athletics, this is the largest class of any school participating in the campaign.
Nike’s Blue Ribbon Elite program is the brand’s Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) program, which launched in 2025.
This year’s class includes:
Ty Benefield, Safety
Harlem Berry, Running back
Jayce Brown, Wide receiver
Lamar Brown, Defensive lineman
Caden Durham, Running back
Trey’Dez Green, Tight end
Husan Longstreet, Quarterback
DJ Pickett, Cornerback
Jordan Seaton, Offensive lineman
Princewill Umanmielen, Defensive lineman
July 24, 2026 – AOL
Where LSU football is picked to finish in SEC preseason media poll
SEC Order of Finish
- Georgia (88)
- Texas (57)
- Ole Miss (6)
- Texas A&M (5)
- LSU (2)
- Alabama (3)
- Oklahoma (2)
- Tennessee
- Florida
- Missouri
- South Carolina
- Auburn
- Vanderbilt
- Kentucky (1)
- Mississippi State
- Arkansas
Read More: https://www.aol.com/articles/where-lsu-football-picked-finish-162609000.html
July 26, 2026 – Tiger Rag
LSU Football Opener Is 41 Days Away: Here Is No. 3 Of 42 Tiger Profiles By Game Week – Safety Ty Benefield
One of the best parts about the NCAA Transfer Portal is the instant gratification. And that is already happening with senior transfer safety Ty Benefield of Boise State.
Benefield (6-foot-3, 208 pounds) is the projected starter at free safety after making 235 tackles in his college career with 18 for loss along with five interceptions. The native of the Los Angeles area was the No. 26 portal player in the nation and No. 2 safety when he signed with LSU in January.
TIGER RAG SCOUTING REPORT: Big, experienced safety whose size and range fit the a Southeastern Conference secondary. Benefield was dominant in the Mountain West and quickly became a standout on LSU’s defense during spring practice.
Read More: https://www.tigerrag.com/lsu-football-opener-is-41-days-away-here-is-no-3-of-42-tiger-profiles-by-game-week-safety-ty-benefield/
July 27, 2026 – Steelers Depot
Paglia: Pre-Season 2027 NFL Draft Top 10 Safety Ranking
Read More: https://steelersdepot.com/2026/07/paglia-preseason-2027-nfl-draft-top-10-safety-rankings/
July 27, 2026 – Yahoo Sports – LSU Tigers ON SI
Whit Weeks Makes Bold Prediction About LSU Safety Ty Benefield
LSU linebacker Whit Weeks didn’t hesitate when asked about safety Ty Benefield during SEC Football Media Days. Weeks praised Benefield’s work ethic, football IQ and leadership before making a bold prediction about his NFL future. Do you agree with Whit’s first-round prediction?
Watch on YouTube: https://steelersdepot.com/2026/07/paglia-preseason-2027-nfl-draft-top-10-safety-rankings/
July 28, 2026 – Yahoo Sports – LSU Tigers ON SI
Five LSU Players Fans Will Be Talking About After Fall Camp
Boise State Broncos safety Ty Benefield (0) attempts to make an interception against Penn State Nittany Lions wide receiver Omari Evans (5) during the first half in the Fiesta Bowl at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images | USA TODAY Sports via Reuters Connect
To add to the threat in the backfield, Kiffin and his team picked up standout safety Ty Benefield from Boise State, who was ranked as one of the top defenders in the portal.
Stepping into a top-ranked defensive unit, Benefield is the ideal last line of defense against tough SEC offenses, as his breakout season will start just next week and continue to thrill fans all season long.
Read More: https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/five-lsu-players-fans-talking-191817132.html
July 29, 2026 – The Deep Ball on IG
New LSU DB Ty Benefield is a Monster
New LSU safety Ty Benefield is a MONSTER on the field. ESPN ranks him as one of the top defenders in college football for 2026, and looks to be in line for a major breakout season after transferring from Boise State. 🔥
Benefield, 6’3, 208 lbs, had a standout career at Boise State. He started 33 games, earned First-Team All-Mountain West in 2025, and earned Mountain West Championship Game MVP honors as a junior in 2024.
Benefield tallied 235 tackles, 18 tackles for loss, 16 pass breakups and 5 interceptions during his 3 years as Boise State Bronco.
Many believe the best is yet to come for him. 👀
Read More: https://www.instagram.com/p/DbY4pOKGYWl/?img_index=1