Coming off a 10-win season in Baton Rouge, hopes are high that LSU can take the next step under Ed Orgeron with a new offense leading to a more explosive and entertaining brand of football on the Bayou.

While the offense has received the vast majority of the hype this offseason, it’s LSU’s defense that is poised to be among the SEC’s best units thanks in large part to the return of K’Lavon Chaisson to the field. Any defense would be hurt by the loss of a leader and outstanding performer like Devin White but getting Chaisson back on the field could be the difference for a defense that struggled at times to rush opposing passers.

The hype around Chaisson’s return was increased recently as Orgeron announced that the sophomore linebacker had earned the coveted No. 18 jersey entering the team’s training camp. Orgeron also honored offensive lineman Lloyd Cushenberry III with the honor, however, the team’s starting center will have to wear a patch with the No. 18 due to the fact offensive linemen are not permitted to wear numbers in the teens.

During his recent media availability, Chaisson discussed the honor that he felt to receive the number considering he only played in one game last season. During LSU’s season opener against Miami in 2018, Chaisson injured his knee against the Hurricanes and was lost for the season following one game of action.

“It’s special. The number 18 is a very special number but at the same time, it’s just me,” Chaisson said. “I didn’t really do anything to become No. 18, I didn’t do any special things to get this number, I was just being myself. I’m glad that it was recognized but at the same time, whether I have the number or not, I gotta do what needs to be done on and off the field. That’s just how I was raised.”

Chaisson admits he was very surprised when Coach O announced he would receive the honor, along with Cushenberry. In fact, Chaisson revealed he had conceded the honor to another teammate just before Orgeron made the announcement. While the honor may have come as a surprise, Chaisson vows to continue to display the character and hard work that got him the number heading into camp.

“I’m very honored to have it, it’s a true testament to how I’ve been on and off the field, but like I said, I didn’t really do anything, it’s just who I am,” he added. “I’m going to be the same with or without the number, just continue to be me.”

As for the biggest question Chaisson faces now that he’s back on the field, the sophomore was asked about his knee and any mental reservations he has as he hits the field for the first time since the Miami game.

“I promise you, from Day 1, I’ve never had a problem — never had a mental problem with my knee. I trust my training room, I trust the staff so worrying about my knee is the last thing I need to be doing. I don’t really have mental issues,” Chaisson said. “Once they say I’m full go, I’m trying it out to see where it goes.”

Spoken like a true No. 18.