LSU’s Trey’Dez Green focused on leadership, not statistics, heading into 2026 season

The LSU Tigers enter the 2026 season with sky-high expectations, and tight end Trey’Dez Green is expected to play a significant role in the Lane Kiffin’s offense. But when asked about his personal aspirations during SEC Media Days, Green made it clear that leadership, not statistics, is at the top of his priority list.

Leo Haggerty of Amped Up Sports Draft Nation asked Green what individual goals he hopes to accomplish this season while helping LSU achieve its team objectives. Rather than discussing statistics or postseason honors, Green pointed to the impact he wants to have inside the locker room.

“I just want to be that guy that my teammates can count on,” Green said. “I just want to be that outlet for them, whether they’re going through something or whether they need something, they need some energy or they need a boost or something.”

Green said being available for teammates on and off the field is what he hopes defines his season.

“I could just be that person in their ear or just being that outlet for them,” he continued. “I just want to be looked at as a guy that just got stuff done in this offense.”

The comments prove the growing leadership role Green has embraced entering the new season. While LSU boasts one of the SEC’s most talented rosters, veteran voices will be essential as the Tigers navigate a schedule filled with high-profile matchups and conference title aspirations.

Green’s mindset also reflects the culture Kiffin has emphasized since arriving in Baton Rouge. One focused on accountability, consistency and putting the team ahead of individual accomplishments. That mentality will be put to the test immediately.

LSU opens the season in one of college football’s marquee matchups, hosting Clemson in Death Valley in a nationally televised showdown expected to draw one of the largest audiences of opening weekend. With ESPN’s College GameDay expected to be on site and the spotlight shining brightly on both programs, Green acknowledged the excitement while emphasizing the importance of staying grounded.

Ella Grogan of Fox Carolina asked Green how he plans to balance the hype surrounding the opener against Clemson while maintaining his focus throughout preseason preparations, to which Green said the key is avoiding distractions.

“Try not to get my hair wrapped around it so much,” Green said. “Just try to get better, 1% better each day.As we all know, Clemson is a great team, wonderful program, and it’s going to be a great, wonderful, magnificent game, especially in Death Valley with those wonderful fans out there.”

The opener is expected to serve as an early measuring stick for both programs and could have immediate implications for the College Football Playoff race. For LSU, a victory would provide momentum heading into SEC play while reinforcing the lofty expectations surrounding the Tigers and Lane Kiffin

For Green, however, the focus remains much simpler.

Whether it’s providing a reliable target in the passing game, uplifting his teammates during practice or making plays the offense needs in critical moments, the junior tight end wants to be remembered as someone his teammates could always depend on. If Green accomplishes that goal, LSU’s team goals may not be far behind.