Ty Benefield

The Player

Benefield is a Boise State transfer who will face a much higher level of competition in the SEC. But his tape is encouraging, and he has the tools to make the transition. He split snaps between the box and free safety while also lining up over the slot in 2025.

He’s long and fast enough to match up with tight ends, and he has good range and instincts in single-high looks. Benefield is a long strider and a big, physical presence over the middle. He’s a natural hands catcher who tracks the ball like a wide receiver, intercepting four passes over the past two seasons. His length also allows him to break up passes in phase and compete for 50-50 balls.

Benefield has the potential to develop press-cover skills, but his footwork at the line and ability to locate the ball with his back to the quarterback need improvement. He’s tight and faster than quick, which can lead to separation at the top of his routes. He’s also overly physical and was penalized five times in coverage in 2025.

He has the potential to develop into an elite run defender. Benefield is a downhill run stopper who fills gaps and runs the alley with bad intentions. He can beat blockers to the point of attack and sift through traffic, as evidenced by his 8.5 tackles for loss in 2025.

However, his tackling needs significant improvement. Despite leading the Mountain West with 70 solo tackles and flashing outstanding stopping power, he missed 28 tackles in 2025. 

Benefield started 33 of 41 games at Boise State, totaling 235 tackles (18 for loss), 17 passes defended, and five interceptions. He was a first-team All–Mountain West selection in 2025, and his combination of size, range, physicality, and ball skills gives him intriguing upside at LSU.