This spring is likely the last of Derek Stingley Jr.’s college career as the outstanding defensive back projects to be arguably the top overall prospect in the country looking ahead to the 2022 NFL Draft.

While some players of that elite caliber may rest on their laurels, Ed Orgeron says he’s been impressed by the leadership role the junior defensive back has displayed on the practice field this spring.

“Yeah, he’s comes in with a smile every day, working hard, tight coverage, breaking up balls, breaking up passes, interceptions,” Orgeron says of Stingley in the clip below. “But the thing I like about him is his leadership. He’s actually stepping up and saying things and leading by example, doing a great job in the classroom, doing a great job in everything he’s doing.”

Stingley has a lot to gain this season in Baton Rouge as an outstanding performance on the field will likely set him up for the rest of his life.

But considering he’s been part of the greatest season in LSU history, as well as one of the most disappointing seasons in program history during his two years on campus, it’s becoming clear that Stingley is willing to do what he can to get his team back to championship contention before he moves on to the game’s highest level.