Slade Roy: The Unsung Hero of LSU’s Special Teams

While much of the spotlight in football shines on skill players like quarterbacks, running backs, and wide receivers, the contributions of players in less glamorous roles can often go unnoticed. One such unsung hero for LSU in 2023 was No. 44, Slade Roy, the Tigers’ long snapper. The long snapper’s role, often relegated to a footnote in game summaries, is integral to the success of a team’s special teams unit. Roy’s precision, consistency, and reliability as a long snapper were key components in LSU’s special teams success throughout the season.

A Unique Journey to LSU

Slade Roy’s path to LSU was not the traditional one. Roy was born in Charlotte, North Carolina, where he attended South Mecklenburg High School. Growing up, Roy displayed athleticism, but it wasn’t until his later high school years that he found his niche as a long snapper. His strong arm, ability to deliver accurate and quick snaps, and knack for handling pressure quickly caught the attention of college scouts. He was later recruited by East Carolina University, where he started his college career.

At East Carolina, Roy had the opportunity to refine his skills and develop as a long snapper, setting the foundation for his eventual transfer to LSU. In 2021, after establishing himself as a reliable option at East Carolina, Roy made the decision to transfer to LSU, seeking a higher level of competition and the chance to play in one of the most storied programs in college football. This decision was driven not just by his desire to improve, but also by his ambition to contribute to a championship-caliber team.

The 2023 Season: A Key Piece of LSU’s Special Teams

During the 2023 season, Slade Roy became one of the most dependable players on LSU’s special teams. His job, although often underappreciated by casual fans, was pivotal to the team’s success. As the primary long snapper for both punts and placekicks, Roy’s accuracy and consistency allowed the Tigers’ special teams to operate smoothly without issue.

Long snapping requires an extraordinary level of precision, as even the smallest miscue can result in a blocked kick or a turnover. Throughout the 2023 season, Roy executed 118 special teams snaps without a single botched play. This included 26 snaps on punts, where the long snapper’s role is to deliver the ball accurately to the punter, and 92 snaps on field goals and extra points, where the snap’s speed and accuracy are essential for a clean kick attempt.

Roy’s technical skill, in tandem with his ability to remain calm under pressure, made him an invaluable asset to LSU’s special teams. His performance helped maintain LSU’s high standards for special teams play, contributing to both field position and scoring opportunities.

Slade Roy’s Role in LSU’s Big Wins

While long snapping isn’t a flashy position, the importance of a clean snap during critical moments cannot be overstated. Several of LSU’s victories in 2023 were aided by flawless execution on special teams, and much of that success can be attributed to Roy’s consistent performance. Whether it was a clutch field goal attempt in a close game or a well-executed punt that flipped field position, Roy’s reliability allowed LSU to remain competitive in high-stakes situations.

One such example came in LSU’s dramatic win against Alabama, where a game-winning field goal attempt in the final seconds could have been derailed by a poorly executed snap. However, Roy’s precision ensured the field goal unit had no issues in securing the win. These moments, while not always highlighted in the box score, were critical to LSU’s overall success.

Off the Field: A Scholar and Leader

Beyond his on-field accomplishments, Slade Roy was known for his commitment to academics and leadership. Despite the demanding schedule of a Division I football player, Roy made time to excel in the classroom. He was named to the SEC Academic Honor Roll in both 2022 and 2023, a testament to his ability to balance his athletic and academic commitments.

Roy’s academic achievements also extended beyond the classroom. In the summer of 2022, he earned a spot on LSU’s prestigious Dean’s List, which honors students who maintain exceptional academic performance. This recognition underscored Roy’s dedication to his education, as he was determined to be successful not just as an athlete but as a student as well.

Additionally, Roy took part in LSU’s Study Abroad program in May 2023, traveling to Senegal for a 10-day cultural exchange with several of his teammates. This experience allowed Roy to connect with people from different backgrounds, broaden his perspective, and engage in a deeper understanding of global issues. These experiences outside of football enriched Roy’s college years, allowing him to grow both personally and professionally.

Senior Season Outlook: Leadership and Legacy

Entering his senior season in 2024, Slade Roy was poised to build on his successful tenure at LSU. By this point, Roy was not just a player but a leader on the team, having earned the respect of his teammates and coaches alike. The experience he gained over his time at LSU made him not only an asset on special teams but also a mentor to younger players looking to make their mark in similar positions.

As one of the senior members of the team, Roy’s leadership was expected to be a guiding force for LSU in 2024. His experience and reliability on the field would be key to ensuring the continued success of LSU’s special teams, and his ability to mentor younger players would help foster a culture of excellence within the program.

Slade Roy’s Impact on LSU Football

While long snappers rarely get the attention they deserve, the impact Slade Roy had on LSU’s football program cannot be understated. In addition to his flawless execution on the field, Roy’s leadership, academic success, and commitment to his teammates made him a well-rounded and respected figure within the program.

His decision to transfer to LSU in 2022 paid off, as he became a cornerstone of the team’s special teams unit and a key contributor to LSU’s success in 2023. Roy’s journey from East Carolina to LSU was a testament to his work ethic, dedication, and desire to compete at the highest level. His accomplishments in Baton Rouge helped him solidify his place in LSU football history, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of LSU players.

The Road Ahead: Professional Prospects

As Slade Roy wraps up his collegiate career, all eyes are on his next steps. Long snappers rarely get drafted into the NFL, but Roy’s consistency and technical ability have positioned him as a potential prospect for professional teams seeking stability in their special teams units. With the increased recognition of the importance of special teams play in recent years, long snappers like Roy have found opportunities to continue their careers at the next level.

Given his track record at LSU, it would not be surprising to see Roy earn a spot on an NFL roster in the future. His ability to execute under pressure and his commitment to excellence make him a valuable asset to any team looking to shore up their special teams play. Whether in the NFL or another professional league, Roy’s work ethic and precision should serve him well in any future endeavors.

Slade Roy’s Enduring Legacy at LSU

Slade Roy’s time at LSU was marked by precision, consistency, and leadership. Though his position as a long snapper may not have garnered the same level of attention as some of his teammates, his contributions were invaluable to the team’s success. Whether it was delivering flawless snaps in critical moments, excelling in the classroom, or mentoring younger players, Roy demonstrated what it means to be a complete athlete and leader.

As he moves on to the next chapter of his career, Roy’s legacy at LSU will endure as a reminder of the importance of every position on the football field. His time with the Tigers serves as a model for dedication, teamwork, and excellence, and he leaves LSU football in a stronger position for the future.