Two Tigers Land On CBS Sports Rankings Of The 26 Most-Feared Defensive Players For 2026

LSU edge rusher Princewill Umanmielen and safety Ty Benefield both landed on the CBS Sports list of the 26 most-feared defensive players ahead of the 2026 season.

Here's what Brad Crawford has to say about both players:

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4. Princewill Umanmielen, EDGE, LSU
The top-ranked pass rusher this portal cycle, Umanmielen, brings length, burst and positional versatility to a defense that desperately needs more consistency pressuring quarterbacks. His arrival also gives LSU a player that offenses must account for snap after snap, freeing opportunities for others along the front. During a College Football Playoff race loaded with elite quarterbacks in the SEC, disruptive pass rushers often become the difference between getting to the bracket and another frustrating near miss. Lane Kiffin hopes his former Ole Miss star stands out in Baton Rouge.

23. Ty Benefield, S, LSU
This transfer from Boise State comes to Baton Rouge with 187 tackles over the last two seasons as a player who diagnoses plays before they happen and loves sticking his face in the fan against the run. His value isn't confined to one role -- Benefield can play deep safety, rotate into the box or match up in the slot without tipping coverage tells. That versatility is critical for an LSU defense under Blake Baker that wants to disguise pressure and challenge elite SEC quarterbacks.

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