The 5 LSU football freshmen most likely to make an impact for the Tigers in 2023

LSU football has plenty of returning talent across the board, but there are positions that offer opportunities for younger players to get on the field this season.
With Brian Kelly and his staff doing a good job on the recruiting trail, there are freshmen on the roster who are too good to sit out the 2023 campaign. LSU is in position to compete again for the SEC West title, and Kelly is going to put his best players on the field.
Whether there's a freshman on the roster who can step up like linebacker Harold Perkins did a year ago remains to be seen, but there are members of the 2023 recruiting class who have a shot to make an impact.
Da'Shawn Womack, defensive end
The gifted pass rusher from Baltimore didn't take part in spring contact drills while recovering from offseason labrum surgery, but Womack has the size and athleticism to get snaps this season at either Jack linebacker or defensive end. The 6-foot-5, 270-pound freshman had 15 sacks and 26 tackles for loss as a senior at St. Frances Academy, but he'll have to show during fall camp that he's ready to hang in the SEC.
Zalance Heard, offensive tackle
At 6-6 and 340 pounds, the freshman will look the part stepping off the bus for games this season. That length with his skill should also give the native of tiny Bonita, Louisiana, a chance to get playing time in his first season. He arrived on campus this summer, and is one of the freshmen expected to push returning players during fall camp.
Javien Toviano, cornerback
After seeing time in multiple roles during spring practice, the top 100 defensive back recruit has a good chance of getting on the field early. Toviano ended the spring as the projected backup at nickel. With his versatility, he could also move to deep safety or cornerback if needed.
Ka’Morreun Pimpton, tight end
Another freshman who first arrived on campus this summer, Pimpton stands 6-6, 227 pounds. LSU doesn't have experienced depth at tight end behind sophomore Mason Taylor, who missed the spring after shoulder surgery, giving Pimpton a chance to step in as another pass-catching option off the bench. His catch radius could quickly make him a red zone threat.
Jalen Brown, wide receiver
A four-star prospect out of South Florida, Brown looked promising during spring practice. LSU will need some inexperienced wide receivers to provide depth in the rotation, and Brown seems like a good candidate to contribute at the deep position because of his speed. At 6-1 and 178 pounds, he'll have to prove himself through fall camp.