Harlem Berry agrees to return to LSU for Sophomore season

By Matt Moscona

Lane Kiffin scored another big win before he’s even coached a game at LSU.

Running back Harlem Berry has agreed to return to LSU for his sophomore season, LouisianaSports.net has learned. Terms of his contract were not immediately disclosed, but he is expected to sign the agreement Wednesday.

There was speculation that Berry could test the transfer portal with running backs coach Frank Wilson heading to Ole Miss and rumors of Rebels running back Kewan Lacy possibly joining Kiffin at LSU.

Berry met with general manager Billy Glasscock to discuss terms of his return and new running back coach Kevin Smith to get a feel for how he would be utilized.

“(Berry returning) lined up for the beginning of the conversation,” a source said. “It was never an issue.”

The 5-foot-11, 190 pound former five-star from New Orleans finished his freshman season with 491 rushing yards and two touchdowns. He added eight receptions for 32 yards.

LSU has already seen its depth at running back sliced for 2026 with Kaleb Jackson and Ju’Juan Johnson declaring their intention to enter the portal. JT Lindsey signed in the 2025 class but has been away from the team since August dealing with a legal matter. The Tigers did not sign a running back in the 2026 high school class. That leaves only Berry and rising junior Caden Durham on the roster currently.

Even if LSU does add to the position via the portal, that won’t deter Berry.

“There’s never been a running back room with one running back in it,” said the source. “Harlem isn’t afraid of competition.”

The transfer portal window will open Jan. 2.