
MansoorDelane
Versatile, playmaking defensive back with top-tier instincts in coverage.
InstinctualPlaymaking
Short-AreaQuickness
Coveragechops
Delane is a big-impact defender with a knack for making plays on the ball. A transfer to LSU in 2025 after playing three seasons at Virginia Tech, he is a tough and physical cornerback who excels at several types of coverage looks. He loves crowding receivers at the line, and he mirrors effortlessly in press coverage. He’s very comfortable in off-coverage schemes, too, where he can utilize a half-turn technique and keep his eyes on the quarterback. He positions himself well, showing an understanding of spacing and reading route combinations. He flashes anticipation in coverage, frequently jumping routes to make a play. He stifles opponents at the catch point: He undercuts routes, rakes through opponents’ arms so they can’t finish the catch, and generally does all he can to make things very difficult for the receiver to complete the catch. That has translated to consistent production: He racked up two picks and 11 passes defensed for the Tigers in 2025, per PFF, with no touchdowns surrendered in coverage. And in three seasons at Virginia Tech, he picked off six passes, notched 16 passes defensed, and forced four fumbles. Delane’s versatility also stands out; he has seen snaps at outside corner, over the slot, in the box, and at free safety during his college career.
Delane has a slim frame and lacks length. He can be a little too grabby down the field and will need to play with more discipline at the next level. His aggressive nature in coverage could make him susceptible to double moves. He needs to be more consistent about wrapping up and finishing tackles.
Background
By Daniel Comer
A senior and former three-star recruit out of Severn, Maryland. Was the no. 59 cornerback and the no. 650 overall player in the 2022 class. Played three seasons at Virginia Tech (starting 29 games in the secondary) before transferring to LSU for the 2025 season. He allowed just 147 yards in coverage in 2025 and was named unanimous first-team All-American and first-team All-SEC and was a Jim Thorpe Award finalist.
Fun Facts
- He is known for his versatility, with 138 man coverage snaps and 176 zone coverage snaps this past season.
- His little brother, Faheem, played safety at Ohio State this past season but is transferring to LSU in 2026.
- His favorite movie is Cars 3.
- He has a puppy named Nola.
- His IG lists him as a “government official.”
- He was a Ravens fan growing up, and his football role model is Ray Lewis.