Ex-LSU running back who walked on at HBCU is already ‘a difference-maker’

After a turbulent year off the field, former LSU running back Trey Holly made headlines Tuesday, suiting up for Southern University following his much-anticipated but delayed entrance to fall camp.

Holly, once one of Louisiana’s most celebrated high school rushers, has found a new home and fresh start just miles from his former team, drawing attention and optimism from fans and coaches alike.

Holly, who sat out the first week of Southern’s fall camp, participated fully Tuesday, earning praise from observers. “He’s as advertised,” said Southern coach Terrence Graves.

The sentiment was echoed throughout the Jaguars’ camp, where Holly’s speed, vision, and playmaking ability were immediately apparent.

The path to Southern has been anything but straightforward for Holly. After setting Louisiana prep records at Union Parish High School with an astonishing 10,523 rushing yards and 160 touchdowns, Holly spent his freshman season at LSU in 2023, scoring a memorable 67-yard touchdown against Army.

“He’s as advertised.” After sitting out most of the first week of fall camp, #Southern running back Trey Holly is now participating in team drills in full pads.

The Jags have also updated their online roster to include Holly, who will be wearing No. 6.#SWAC pic.twitter.com/vqe6jiSefB

— Brendon Fairbairn (@FairbairnTV) July 29, 2025

His trajectory changed course in early 2024, however, when he was arrested in Farmerville, Louisiana, and faced legal challenges due to an attempted murder charge.

Though an attempted murder charge was later dropped, Holly still faces charges for aggravated criminal damage to property and illegal use of a weapon—legal matters that have lingered due to delays in the Union Parish court system.

Now enrolled at Southern as a walk-on, Holly provides the Jaguars with a proven talent and instant credibility in the backfield as they prepare for the 2025 season opener against NC Central.

Graves confirmed Holly’s eligibility and left no doubt about his potential impact: “He’s a difference-maker. Everyone could see it right away.”

For Holly, this season represents a chance to reclaim his football future and showcase the ability that once made him one of the nation’s top running back prospects.