Lane Kiffin Sends Clear Message On NIL Era Ahead Of LSU's Fall Camp

LSU coach Lane Kiffin spoke to the Baton Rouge Rotary Club on Wednesday afternoon, touching on a variety of topics as the Tigers prepare for the start of fall camp next week.

Kiffin explained that once camp officially begins, players will be held to higher standards now that they are being compensated through NIL.

“We have a highly demanding program. The old days of being the student-athlete, those are gone once you’re making this kind of money. Nobody just gets anything.”

Kiffin said programs that dismissed NIL as a passing trend ultimately fell behind, warning that failing to adapt would lead to coaching changes.

Kiffin also provided a positive update on quarterback Sam Leavitt, saying he is doing well physically. The focus during fall camp will be building chemistry and timing with his teammates, something that began this summer but will become even more important over the coming weeks.

While excitement surrounding the 2026 season is high, Kiffin said he is equally encouraged by the long-term outlook of the program.

"Once we get to Year 2, we’ll be able to develop a deeper roster. As excited as we are about this year, I want to talk about building for the future."

Kiffin also revealed that LSU is actively exploring the use of AI in player evaluation, saying successful programs must evolve rather than rely on outdated methods.

"We had a meeting about it yesterday. You can't just keep doing things the old way. If you did that, you'd still be in the I formation and huddle."