LSU football's TJ Dottery leads all FBS linebackers in PFF grade

LSU football linebacker TJ Dottery is off to an impressive start in 2026, according to PFF. Dottery is currently the top-graded linebacker in college football through Week 2, earning a defensive grade of 94.8, which is two points higher than the runner-up. Dottery, a member of LSU's talented transfer class that followed head coach Lane Kiffin from Ole Miss, is one of the most experienced linebackers in the SEC.

PFF highlights Dottery's contributions, including seven stops, two forced fumbles, and a pass breakup. He has been particularly effective as a blitzer, recording seven pressures and one quarterback hit. Dottery's speed and explosiveness make him a formidable force up the middle, and he appears to be improving his run-scheme versatility.

Dottery faces his former team, Ole Miss, this week in what will likely be LSU's most challenging test of the 2026 season. The LSU defense has proven its mettle thus far, neutralizing powerful offenses from Clemson and Louisiana Tech.