247Sports | UPDATE: Former LSU Running Back John Emery Jr. Officially Inks Deal with New Program
After months of speculation about his next move, former LSU running back John Emery Jr. has officially signed with a new college football program, marking a significant development in the offseason transfer landscape. The news, confirmed by 247Sports, solidifies Emery’s intention to continue his football journey away from Baton Rouge, bringing his talent and experience to a new locker room.
Emery, a former five-star recruit from the class of 2019, arrived at LSU with considerable hype and expectations. A product of Destrehan High School in Louisiana, Emery was once ranked as the No. 2 running back in the nation and chose to stay close to home when he committed to the Tigers. However, his career at LSU was marked by both flashes of elite talent and frustrating setbacks, including academic issues and injuries that limited his consistency and availability.
Despite those hurdles, Emery showed enough on the field to remain a sought-after name in the transfer portal. Over four seasons with LSU, he compiled over 1,100 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns, with his most productive stretch coming in the 2022 season. Known for his explosiveness and ability to break tackles, Emery remains a dangerous back when healthy and in rhythm.
His decision to transfer was not entirely unexpected, especially with LSU bringing in fresh talent at the running back position and shifting offensive dynamics under head coach Brian Kelly. The move is seen as a fresh opportunity for Emery to revitalize his career and potentially elevate his stock ahead of a possible NFL future.
According to 247Sports, Emery has now officially signed with Jacksonville State, a program on the rise under head coach Rich Rodriguez. The Gamecocks recently made the transition to FBS competition, and Emery’s addition could be a major boost to their offensive arsenal. With Rodriguez known for his run-heavy schemes and fast-paced style of play, Emery’s skill set seems like a natural fit.
In a brief statement, Rodriguez expressed excitement over landing a player of Emery’s caliber: “John is a special talent. His experience playing in the SEC and his ability to create big plays will bring a lot to our team. We’re thrilled to welcome him to Jacksonville State.”
For Emery, the move offers a chance to step into a feature back role and finish his college career on a high note. With two years of eligibility remaining due to the COVID waiver and redshirt rules, he’ll have time to develop and produce in a system tailored to his strengths.
While LSU fans may feel a tinge of what-could-have-been, there’s no denying the potential Emery still possesses. His transfer and official signing signal not only a personal reset but also one of the more intriguing running back additions of the offseason.
