Former Zephyrhills standout DJ Pickett is making waves on the national stage, earning recognition as On3 Sports’ True Freshman Defensive Player of the Year after an outstanding debut season with the LSU Tigers.
The 6-foot-5 Zephyrhills native wasted no time proving he belonged in the SEC spotlight. Pickett played in all 12 games for the Tigers and delivered a freshman campaign that turned heads across the country. His stat line was nothing short of impressive with 3 interceptions, 28 total tackles, 2 sacks, 2.5 tackles for loss, 1 quarterback hurry and 2 pass breakups.
Pickett’s impact extended far beyond his numbers. Opposing quarterbacks quickly learned to avoid his side of the field. When they did test him, they paid the price—Pickett held passers to a 32.4% rating when targeted, allowing just 69 yards on 128 coverage snaps and surrendering zero touchdowns in man coverage all season.
His combination of size, athleticism, and natural instincts made him one of college football’s most disruptive young defenders.
From Zephyrhills to the bright lights of Baton Rouge, Pickett has proven he’s built for the big stage. And if his freshman year is any indication, this is only the beginning for the Tigers’ rising star.