Garrett Dellinger LSU OG Emerges as Key Anchor on Tigers’ Offensive Line
Garrett Dellinger has established himself as one of LSU’s most valuable offensive linemen over the past four years. The versatile 6’6″ lineman has played in 41 games with 30 starts from 2021-2024. He showcased remarkable adaptability by starting at three different positions during his Tigers career. His experience in LSU’s offensive scheme, which features a 59-41 pass-run split, has prepared him well for the next level.
NFL scouts are particularly impressed with Dellinger’s versatility and technical fundamentals. They project him as a mid-round selection in the 2025 NFL Draft with potential to develop into a reliable interior lineman at the professional level. The former four-star recruit was highly regarded coming out of high school, ranked as the 31st best player nationally by ESPN and the second-best prospect in Michigan.
Beyond football, Dellinger brings impressive athletic credentials to the table. He was also a varsity basketball player since his freshman year of high school, demonstrating the coordination and footwork that have translated well to his performance on the offensive line. This multi-sport background has helped shape him into the kind of athletic guard that modern NFL offenses increasingly covet.
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Garrett Dellinger Profile
Garrett Dellinger has developed into a versatile offensive lineman at LSU, demonstrating his adaptability by playing multiple positions along the offensive line. His journey from high school standout to collegiate contributor showcases his technical skills and football IQ.
High School Career
At Clarkston High School in Michigan, Dellinger established himself as an elite offensive line prospect. Standing at 6’6″ and weighing 277 pounds as a prep athlete, he dominated the line of scrimmage with his size and technique.
Dellinger wasn’t just a football star. He played varsity basketball since his freshman year, showcasing his athleticism despite his substantial frame.
His high school performance earned him four-star recruit status. ESPN ranked him as the 31st best player nationally and the second-best prospect in Michigan.
His technique and footwork stood out among his peers, making him one of the most coveted offensive line prospects in his class.
Recruitment
Dellinger’s recruitment featured attention from multiple power programs across the country. His four-star status and high rankings made him a priority target for many top-tier schools.
He ultimately chose LSU over other major programs, bringing his talents to Baton Rouge where he would develop into a versatile offensive line piece.
His decision to join the Tigers proved instrumental in his development, as LSU’s coaching staff identified his ability to play multiple positions along the line.
This versatility would become his calling card and significantly enhance his value at both the collegiate level and for NFL scouts.
Personal Background
Dellinger’s work ethic and football intelligence have been evident throughout his collegiate career. His ability to master the techniques required for different positions speaks to his dedication to the game.
At LSU, he played in 41 games with 30 starts from 2021-2024, showcasing remarkable durability and consistency.
What makes Dellinger particularly valuable is his versatility. He started at three different positions during his four years with the Tigers, demonstrating exceptional adaptability.
For NFL scouts, this positional flexibility represents significant value. Teams increasingly prize offensive linemen who can fill multiple roles, making Dellinger an intriguing prospect for the next level.
LSU Football Program
The LSU Football Program stands as one of college football’s premier institutions, combining rich tradition with modern excellence. The program has served as the foundation for developing talented offensive linemen like Garrett Dellinger while maintaining competitive relevance on the national stage.
History and Legacy
LSU football boasts a storied history dating back to 1893, accumulating four national championships (2003, 2007, 2019, 2023) and 12 SEC titles. The Tigers play in the iconic Death Valley, officially known as Tiger Stadium, which holds over 102,000 fans and creates one of college football’s most intimidating atmospheres.
The program has produced 45 consensus All-Americans and sent hundreds of players to the NFL. LSU’s trademark purple and gold colors have become synonymous with football excellence in the South.
Notable alumni include Patrick Peterson, Tyrann Mathieu, and Joe Burrow, who delivered one of college football’s greatest seasons in 2019. The program’s tradition of excellence continues to attract top-tier talent from across the country.
Coaching Philosophy
Brian Kelly, hired in 2021, brought a disciplined approach to LSU after tremendous success at Notre Dame. His coaching philosophy emphasizes player development, particularly along the offensive line where players like Garrett Dellinger thrived in multiple positions.
Kelly’s system focuses on versatility and adaptability. He demands technical excellence while preparing players for professional careers. His emphasis on positional flexibility helped Dellinger start at three different offensive line positions during his LSU career.
The coaching staff prioritizes strength development and football IQ. This approach has produced remarkable results in pass protection, where LSU linemen have excelled. During the 2023 season, Dellinger and teammate Charles Turner allowed just one sack each over 1,412 combined snaps – a testament to the program’s technical coaching.
Role and Position
Garrett Dellinger has established himself as a versatile force along LSU’s offensive line. His technical skills and football IQ have allowed him to adapt to multiple positions, though he’s found his greatest success at left guard.
Left Guard Profile
Dellinger’s transition to left guard has proven to be a masterstroke for the Tigers’ offensive scheme. At 6’6″ and 320 pounds, he brings ideal size to the interior position while maintaining surprisingly good mobility for a man of his stature.
His hand placement at left guard has become notably consistent—a significant improvement from his earlier days on the line. When pulling on counter plays, Dellinger demonstrates the spatial awareness that NFL scouts covet.
The 2024 season saw Dellinger rank among the SEC’s top interior linemen in pass protection, allowing just 3 sacks across 412 pass-blocking snaps. This versatility across multiple positions showcases his adaptability.
| Stat Category | 2024 Season | SEC Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Pass Block Win Rate | 91.3% | 4th |
| Run Block Success | 87.6% | 5th |
| Penalties | 4 | 7th (fewest) |
Offensive Line Mechanics
Dellinger’s technique stands out even among the talent-rich SEC. His anchor in pass protection shows remarkable improvement—he rarely gets pushed into the quarterback’s lap, a skill that separates mid-round prospects from potential day two NFL draft selections.
In the run game, Dellinger demonstrates excellent leverage despite his height. He consistently maintains a low pad level, creating movement at the point of attack that opens lanes for LSU’s running backs.
His footwork deserves special mention. While not the most athletic guard in the 2025 draft class, Dellinger compensates with precise steps and timing. He rarely crosses his feet or gets caught lunging.
NFL scouts project Dellinger as a potential 3rd-4th round selection who could rise with a strong senior bowl performance. His 5.10-second 40-yard dash time puts him in the 87th percentile for offensive guards.
LSU’s Offensive Line Depth
LSU faces significant challenges with its offensive line after losing four key starters from last season. The Tigers must now rebuild with a mix of returning players and new talent stepping into crucial roles.
Teammate Interactions
The chemistry between linemen can’t be overstated, and that’s where LSU finds itself in a period of adjustment. Garrett Dellinger’s departure creates not just a physical void but a leadership one as well. During his LSU career, Dellinger played in 41 games with 30 starts, gaining experience at three different positions along the line.
Paul Mubenga has been working closely with the remaining veterans, showing promising communication during spring practices. His ability to absorb information from departed seniors like Dellinger has been evident.
Bo Bordelon has emerged as a vocal leader during practice sessions, often seen helping younger linemen with technique refinements. This mentorship role proves crucial as the Tigers navigate this transitional period.
Potential Lineup Changes
The Tigers must replace Will Campbell, Emery Jones, Garrett Dellinger, and Miles Frazier – all impact players from recent years. This creates opportunities for several players to step into starting roles.
Weston Davis has shown tremendous upside in spring sessions, displaying the footwork and strength needed at the collegiate level. His development curve suggests he could claim a starting spot sooner than expected.
Paul Mubenga looks positioned to compete for significant playing time after showing improved hand technique and anchoring ability. His versatility makes him valuable across multiple positions.
Bo Bordelon’s experience gives him an edge in the competition, particularly at guard positions where LSU needs stability. His technical soundness compensates for occasional athletic limitations.
Spring practice performances suggest the following potential first-team configuration:
| Position | Likely Starter | Key Backup |
|---|---|---|
| Left Tackle | Will Campbell’s replacement | Bo Bordelon |
| Left Guard | Paul Mubenga | Freshman talent |
| Center | Weston Davis | Rotational player |
| Right Guard | Bo Bordelon | Paul Mubenga |
| Right Tackle | Developing talent | Multiple competitors |
Season Highlights
Garrett Dellinger’s versatility and resilience defined his time at LSU. The offensive guard demonstrated notable growth throughout the season, establishing himself as a key component of the Tigers’ offensive line.
Key Games and Performances
Dellinger shined brightest during LSU’s critical SEC matchups. Against Florida, he allowed zero sacks while helping the offense rack up 212 rushing yards in a pivotal conference win.
His technique improved markedly from previous seasons. Dellinger’s footwork and hand placement stood out to scouts, particularly during the Alabama game where he graded out at 89.2 according to Pro Football Focus.
The Senior Bowl showcased his talents to NFL scouts, where he interviewed after practice.
Injury and Recovery
Dellinger faced challenges during the season. A mid-season ankle sprain sidelined him for two crucial games, testing his mental fortitude.
His rehabilitation process demonstrated the work ethic that coaches have praised throughout his four-year career at LSU. Dellinger approached recovery with the same intensity he brings to the field.
Upon return, he showed no hesitation or lingering effects. In his first game back against Mississippi State, Dellinger earned the highest grade among LSU’s offensive linemen.
NFL scouts have noted his durability despite the setback. His ability to play through minor injuries while maintaining performance levels has bolstered his draft stock, with most analysts projecting him as a mid-round selection.
Future Projections
Garrett Dellinger stands at a critical juncture in his football career with clear pathways to professional success. His time at LSU has showcased both his current abilities and areas for growth that will determine his ceiling as a prospect.
Potential for Professional Draft
Dellinger has positioned himself as a legitimate NFL Draft prospect for 2025. His physical testing numbers tell part of the story – a 5.15 40-yard dash, 4.66 shuttle time, and 32-inch vertical jump demonstrate solid athleticism for an interior offensive lineman.
Most draft analysts currently project him as a mid-round selection, likely in the 4th-5th round range. This projection stems from his technical proficiency rather than dominant physical traits.
Draft Projection Metrics:
| Metric | Rating | Draft Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Technical Skills | B+ | Positive |
| Athletic Testing | B- | Neutral |
| Scheme Versatility | C+ | Limiting |
| Experience | A- | Positive |
His best fit appears to be with teams employing inside zone schemes where his ability to connect to blocks can be maximized without requiring steep angles.
Continued Development
Dellinger’s development path should focus on adding functional strength and improving leverage techniques. Unlike many SEC guards, he isn’t described as particularly bullish, suggesting room for improvement in power generation.
The departure of Dellinger leaves a significant hole in LSU’s offensive line. He was one of four starting linemen the Tigers lost heading into the 2025 season, highlighting his importance to their past success.
Scouts note three key areas for improvement:
- Hand placement in pass protection
- Core strength at the point of attack
- Finishing ability in the run game
His work in these areas during pre-draft training will significantly impact his final draft position and early professional trajectory.
Coaching Influence
Garrett Dellinger’s development at LSU has been significantly shaped by the coaching staff that has guided his transition from tackle to guard. His technical improvements and growing consistency reflect the structured approach to player development within the program.
Brian Kelly’s Impact
When Brian Kelly arrived at LSU in late 2021, he brought a new level of accountability and technical focus to the offensive line room. Dellinger, who played as a true freshman before Kelly’s arrival, saw his role evolve under the new head coach’s system.
Kelly recognized Dellinger’s versatility early on. He viewed Dellinger as a potential starter even from his freshman season, showing confidence in the lineman’s abilities.
The coach’s emphasis on positional flexibility proved beneficial for Dellinger. After initially recruiting him as a tackle, the staff identified his potential at guard, where his frame and technical skills could be better utilized.
When Dellinger underwent ankle surgery and missed the Alabama game, Kelly maintained his development plan, ensuring the setback wouldn’t derail his progression.
Positional Coaching
The technical improvements in Dellinger’s game speak volumes about the quality of position-specific coaching he’s received. His hand placement and leverage have improved markedly since his arrival.
Draft analysts note that Dellinger would be best suited for an inside zone scheme, reflecting how his coaches have developed his skill set to fit modern NFL requirements. His ability to connect to blocks and maintain sustained fits shows coaching emphasis on fundamentals.
Under positional coaching, Dellinger’s game experience has grown substantially. From his career high of 85 offensive snaps against Arkansas in 2021 to his current role, coaches have steadily increased his responsibilities.
The staff’s development plan has proven effective, turning a top-100 recruit into a legitimate NFL prospect through technical refinement and strategic positional coaching.
Comparative Analysis
When evaluating Garrett Dellinger’s NFL potential, it’s essential to understand how he stacks up against other interior offensive line prospects and how his skills have developed during his time at LSU.
Against Peers
Dellinger brings a unique combination of size and technique that separates him from many IOL prospects in the 2025 draft class. At 6’6″, he’s taller than most interior linemen, but his dense build and thick midsection give him the anchor needed for the position.
Unlike Tyree Adams, who relies more on raw athleticism, Dellinger wins with technical precision and positioning. His approach more closely resembles DJ Chester’s fundamentally sound style, though Chester offers more versatility across the line.
When comparing centers, Dellinger shows better play strength but lacks the natural leverage advantage of traditional centers. His draft ranking currently places him as a mid-round prospect (rounds 3-4), while some peers have climbed into day two consideration.
| OL Prospect | Height | Weight | Scheme Fit | Draft Projection |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| G. Dellinger | 6’6″ | 315 lbs | Zone | Rounds 3-4 |
| Tyree Adams | 6’5″ | 325 lbs | Power | Rounds 4-5 |
| DJ Chester | 6’4″ | 310 lbs | Multiple | Rounds 3-4 |
Seasonal Growth
Dellinger’s development curve at LSU shows a player who’s steadily refined his technique. As a freshman, he was raw but showed the four-star potential that made ESPN rank him 31st nationally.
His sophomore season revealed significant improvement in pass protection, though his run blocking remained inconsistent. By junior year, Dellinger began to excel in zone schemes. He’s particularly effective in inside zone where he connects to blocks more effectively.
What separates Dellinger’s growth trajectory from others is his basketball background. He’s played varsity hoops since his freshman year of high school, and his footwork has improved dramatically each season at LSU.
His understanding of leverage and body positioning now allows him to manipulate defenders to create holes – a skill that wasn’t evident early in his college career.
