Mississippi’s four-star defensive lineman are chosen by LSU football above their SEC opponents.

On Thursday, a top-tier defensive lineman committed to LSU football.

Hayes Fawcett of On3 claims that JaReylan McCoy (2026) choose the Tigers over Alabama, USC, and Tennessee. At the 2025 Under Armour All-American game in Orlando, Florida, he made the announcement.

With McCoy’s pledge, LSU’s 2026 class now has six recruits and is ranked fourth in the cycle. Five of the six are regarded by On3’s Industry Rankings as blue-chip potential.

According to On3’s Industry Rankings, the native of Tupelo, Mississippi, is ranked 124th overall in the class. The four-star prospect is ranked tenth at defensive end and sixth in the state of Mississippi.

In LSU’s system, McCoy is most likely to play the field defensive end position. Despite being 245 pounds and 6 feet 6 and a half, he has shown a great deal of quickness for his size.

McCoy “owns plus length for the position with 34.25-inch arms,” according to an On3 scouting report, and “registers as a top athlete, running a 4.89 second 40-yard dash.”

LSU Football Chooses Mississippi’s Four-Star Defensive Linemen Over SEC Rivals

The LSU football program has made a significant move in securing top talent from Mississippi, specifically focusing on four-star defensive linemen. In a bold decision, LSU has outpaced its Southeastern Conference (SEC) rivals in recruiting some of the most promising prospects from the state. This strategic move not only highlights LSU’s strong recruiting efforts but also demonstrates their commitment to building a formidable defense for the future.

A Powerful Recruiting Strategy

Mississippi, known for its football talent, is often a battleground for recruiting among SEC schools. The four-star defensive linemen from the state are highly coveted, and LSU’s ability to secure them over other SEC schools reflects a strong recruiting strategy and the program’s growing reputation. Defensive linemen are among the most crucial players on the field, and by selecting these elite prospects, LSU is bolstering its defense to compete at the highest level in the SEC.

LSU’s success in securing Mississippi’s four-star talent is part of a broader trend in which the team has increasingly become a go-to destination for top-tier recruits. This is a result of years of successful seasons, national championship victories, and a reputation for developing players who succeed at the next level, including in the NFL. For these Mississippi recruits, LSU offers not just the chance to compete for championships but also the opportunity to develop under some of the best coaching in college football.

The Significance of Four-Star Talent

In college football recruiting, a four-star rating is a significant achievement. Players who earn this distinction are considered among the top high school prospects in the nation, often with the potential to make an immediate impact at the collegiate level. Four-star defensive linemen are particularly valuable because they possess a combination of size, strength, speed, and technique that can disrupt opposing offenses and provide immediate depth to a team’s defensive front.

The four-star defensive linemen LSU has attracted from Mississippi bring a variety of skills and attributes to the table. They are versatile players capable of both defending against the run and rushing the passer. Their size and physicality will be crucial assets to LSU’s defense, as the team looks to continue its tradition of excellence in the SEC. With these players on board, LSU will be able to enhance its defensive schemes, adding depth and flexibility to a unit that is always under scrutiny in one of the most competitive conferences in the nation.

Competition Among SEC Schools

The Southeastern Conference is known for its intense competition, and recruiting battles among SEC schools are often fierce. Mississippi, in particular, is a state that is heavily contested by SEC schools, including perennial powerhouses like Alabama, Georgia, and Auburn, in addition to LSU. These schools routinely battle for the best high school talent, particularly in key positions like the defensive line. The fact that LSU has managed to out-recruit its SEC rivals for these four-star defensive linemen speaks volumes about the program’s approach and its ability to identify and secure top-tier talent.

LSU’s victory in this recruitment race is a reflection of several key factors. First, the program’s success on the field, particularly in recent seasons, plays a critical role in attracting top recruits. LSU has been a consistent contender in the SEC and has won multiple national championships, making it an appealing destination for players looking to compete at the highest level. Additionally, the coaching staff at LSU, led by head coach Brian Kelly, is known for its focus on player development and its ability to mold recruits into top-tier performers.

Another factor contributing to LSU’s success is its culture and commitment to excellence. Recruits often look for a program that not only offers the chance to win but also provides a supportive environment where they can grow both as athletes and individuals. LSU’s reputation as a school that emphasizes discipline, teamwork, and character development is another reason why top recruits, including those from Mississippi, are drawn to Baton Rouge.

The Role of Defensive Linemen in LSU’s Success

Defensive linemen play a critical role in LSU’s football program, as the team has long been known for its dominant defense. A strong defensive line is the cornerstone of any great defense, and LSU understands the importance of having elite players in this position. These players are responsible for pressuring the quarterback, disrupting offensive plays, and controlling the line of scrimmage. By securing Mississippi’s four-star defensive linemen, LSU is ensuring that its defense remains one of the most formidable in the SEC.

In recent years, LSU has produced several standout defensive linemen who have gone on to successful careers in the NFL. This history of developing talent at the position only adds to LSU’s allure as a destination for defensive prospects. The opportunity to follow in the footsteps of players like Glenn Dorsey, Jaquelin Roy, and others who have made a significant impact in the NFL is a powerful motivator for recruits looking to make their mark in college football.

The defensive line recruits from Mississippi will likely be expected to step in and contribute immediately. With their high skill levels, these players have the potential to make an immediate impact on the field, whether it be in passing situations or against the run. LSU’s coaching staff will work to develop these young athletes and integrate them into the team’s defensive schemes, giving them the tools they need to succeed at the collegiate level and beyond.

The Future of LSU’s Defense

With the addition of Mississippi’s four-star defensive linemen, LSU’s defense is poised for continued success in the coming years. The team is already known for its defensive prowess, and these new recruits will only add to the depth and strength of the defensive unit. As LSU looks to remain competitive in the SEC, having top-tier defensive linemen on the roster will be crucial to the team’s ability to control the line of scrimmage and stifle opposing offenses.

Additionally, these recruits will help LSU remain a force in the SEC’s fierce recruiting landscape. The SEC is known for producing elite football talent, and LSU’s ability to secure top defensive players from Mississippi and other key recruiting regions is a testament to the program’s sustained success. As LSU continues to build its roster with elite talent, it will remain one of the premier programs in the nation, capable of competing for championships year after year.