Inside LSU’s Pursuit: Which Top Louisiana Recruits Could Still Flip the Tigers’ Future?

There’s a real buzz swirling around LSU’s 2026 football recruiting class these days—and for good reason. Sitting comfortably at second in the national rankings, this group is packed with top-tier talent, blending standout players from both the greater region and right here in Louisiana. What’s particularly exciting is how Brian Kelly and his staff are doubling down on homegrown stars, locking down six of their nine commits from their own backyard. That strategy not only fuels local pride but gives this class a unique identity, headlined by the state’s No. 1 defensive lineman, five-star Richard Anderson. With more elite prospects still waiting in the wings, including Louisiana’s own Lamar Brown who’s widely expected to pledge to the Tigers soon, the recruiting story for 2026 is far from over. Who else might LSU reel in? Can they sway some top talents even from rivals? Hang tight—there’s plenty to watch as the Tigers aim to stack what could very well be the crown jewel class of the Kelly era. LEARN MORE

LSU extended an offer to Ellis in February, and the Tigers are favored to land the rising athlete. On3 gives the Tigers a 99.7% chance to land a commitment from the state’s No. 16 prospect. He took his only recorded trip to Baton Rouge, an unofficial visit in February.Ranked the No. 1 prospect out of the state No. 10 nationally, Brown is projected to pick the Tigers by On3 and 247Sports. The five-star prospect, who could play either defensive or offensive line, makes his announcement July 10.LSU doesn’t like watching five-stars leave the state, especially with the Tigers’ history of landing five-star defensive backs in Louisiana.Listed as the class’ No. 31 athlete, Ellis likely slots in at cornerback. He would join four-star corner Havon Finney as well as four-star safeties Dylan Purter and Aiden Hall.

Here are five uncommitted 2026 players from Louisiana that LSU fans should keep their eyes on.

Five-star athlete Lamar Brown

There’s still plenty of talent on the board in Louisiana as LSU looks to keep building the class. A commitment from any or all would bolster arguably the best recruiting class of the Brian Kelly era.

LSU has made Brown a priority throughout his process as it doesn’t want a standout from its own backyard. He would be the third five-star prospect in the 2026 class alongside Anderson and wide receiver Tristen Keys.

Four-star defensive lineman Dylan Berymon

The state’s No. 8 prospect, Berymon once considered LSU to be a top contender, but the defensive tackle is heading out of state. Bo Davis vacating the defensive line coach position may have contributed.

The Tigers’ head coach and staff prioritized keeping the best in-state talents home, which shows in their 2026 haul. Six of their nine commitments are Louisiana natives, headlined by five-star and No. 1 defensive lineman Richard Anderson.

Three-star defensive lineman Darryus McKinley

McKinley, a three-star defensive lineman from Lafayette, seems to be headed to Baton Rouge. On3’s Prediction Machine gives him a 98.8% chance of teaming with his brother, Dominick, who enters his second season with the Tigers.

Safety Blaine Bradford committed to Ohio State in March, but LSU won’t give up on the five-star defender. Bradford’s pledge to Ohio State seems firm, though.

Three-star athlete Dezyrian Ellis

Just like Brown, LSU likely won the race for McKinley. His familiarity with the school, combined with his high upside, would make him a great addition to the class. The state’s No. 14 prospect plans to announce his commitment on Nov. 8.Louisiana’s top player in Lamar Brown is likely to commit to LSU, according to On3’s prediction machine but who else are the Tigers heavily targeting? And can they flip the state’s No. 3 prospect despite a verbal commitment to the national champions?

Can LSU flip five-star Blaine Bradford?

Don’t expect a flip now, but keep an eye on Bradford as signing day approaches in the winter.

LSU football’s 2026 recruiting class ranks second in the country heading into summer camp thanks to a blend of highly ranked players from around the region and in the state.LSU missed the cut for Berymon’s top-six and appears to be out of the race. Purdue looks to be the favorite for the top-20 defensive lineman, who hails from Monroe.