LSU’s DJ Pickett showed his value for next coaching staff in win over Western Kentucky

Freshman cornerback DJ Pickett made his first career start on Saturday night against Western Kentucky .

Normally, for a freshman , not earning their first start late into the year wouldn’t be a surprise. But Pickett is no ordinary freshman.

The five-star signee was the No. 2 cornerback in the nation and the No. 11 player overall, according to the 247Sports Composite, and he’s lived up to his lofty recruiting profile upon arriving in Baton Rouge. Pickett has allowed just 11 receptions on 22 targets heading into Saturday, holding opposing quarterbacks to a 45.8 NFL passer rating on throws made in his direction, according to Pro Football Focus.

With senior Mansoor Delane and sophomore PJ Woodland starting and performing at a high level, Pickett was left as LSU’s third cornerback. But