The Tigers are pursuing several committed 2026 quarterbacks as part of the LSU football flip targets.
As LSU continues to build on its momentum under the leadership of head football coach Brian Kelly, the 2026 recruiting cycle is shaping up to be a pivotal one for the Tigers. One of the most critical areas of focus for the program as it looks to the future is the quarterback position. LSU is known for producing elite talent at the quarterback position, and with the evolution of college football and the changing dynamics of recruiting, the Tigers are strategically pursuing several high-profile 2026 quarterbacks who are currently committed to other programs. The pursuit of these quarterbacks, commonly referred to as “flip targets,” is part of a broader strategy to position LSU as one of the top teams in the country for years to come.
In this analysis, we will delve into the significance of LSU’s pursuit of committed quarterbacks for the 2026 class. We will explore the quarterbacks the Tigers are targeting, the rationale behind these pursuits, and how this strategy aligns with LSU’s long-term goals. Additionally, we will examine the broader landscape of college football recruiting and the critical role that the quarterback position plays in shaping a program’s future.
LSU’s Quarterback Tradition and the Need for Continued Success
LSU has long been a powerhouse in college football, boasting a rich tradition that includes multiple national championships, SEC titles, and a history of producing NFL-caliber players. The quarterback position has played an essential role in the Tigers’ success, with notable names like Joe Burrow, JaMarcus Russell, and Matt Mauck leading the charge for LSU over the years.
The most recent example of LSU’s quarterback prowess is Joe Burrow, who led the Tigers to a national championship in the 2019 season and won the Heisman Trophy. Burrow’s meteoric rise from transfer to college football legend exemplifies the program’s ability to develop quarterbacks into elite players. His success has set a high bar for future quarterbacks at LSU, and as the 2026 recruiting class approaches, there is a strong desire to continue this legacy of excellence.
However, with Burrow’s departure and the inevitable turnover of talent, LSU is looking ahead to future quarterbacks who can help maintain the program’s competitive edge. As of the 2025 season, the Tigers have secured some talented young quarterbacks, such as Jayden Daniels, but the long-term stability of the quarterback position is essential for continued success. By targeting the top quarterbacks in the 2026 class—many of whom are committed elsewhere—LSU is positioning itself for another era of excellence under Brian Kelly’s leadership.
The Strategy of Pursuing Committed Quarterbacks
Recruiting high school players is an inherently competitive endeavor, but the chase for committed players, especially at the quarterback position, is particularly intense. Programs around the country, including LSU, have become increasingly adept at identifying and pursuing players who may not have initially chosen them but who could still be a perfect fit for their system. These “flip targets” often represent one of the most critical recruiting battlegrounds, as they are players who have already made commitments to other schools but whose recruiting stories are far from finished.
The pursuit of committed quarterbacks is crucial for several reasons. First, the quarterback position is often seen as the most important on the field, and it can make or break a program’s chances of success in a given season. Having a top-tier quarterback is essential for any program aiming to compete at the highest levels of college football, and LSU’s recruitment of committed quarterbacks is a direct response to the program’s long-term goals.
Second, flipping a committed quarterback signals to the recruiting world that LSU is not only in the hunt for talent but is also willing to go after the best and most highly sought-after players. A successful flip can boost LSU’s national profile and instill a sense of urgency in future recruits who might begin to question their own commitments. The Tigers’ track record of developing quarterbacks and competing for championships further enhances their pitch to quarterbacks already committed elsewhere.
Lastly, pursuing committed quarterbacks is also part of LSU’s broader recruiting strategy. In a highly competitive college football landscape, it is essential to be aggressive in recruiting, especially when it comes to positions of utmost importance. By targeting top quarterbacks in the 2026 class, LSU ensures that it will have options at the position for years to come.
Top 2026 Quarterbacks Committed to Other Programs
While LSU has already locked in a few prospects for the future, there are several highly coveted quarterbacks in the 2026 class who are currently committed to other programs. Some of these quarterbacks have shown interest in LSU, while others may be targets that the Tigers hope to flip in the months leading up to the 2026 signing day.
Here are a few of the top quarterbacks in the 2026 class who are currently committed elsewhere but remain potential flip targets for LSU:
- Chris Davis (Florida) Chris Davis is one of the most highly sought-after quarterbacks in the 2026 class. Committed to Florida, Davis has impressed scouts with his arm strength, mobility, and football IQ. However, LSU has long been a contender for top recruits in Florida, and Davis is no exception. Given LSU’s recruiting strength in the Sunshine State and the program’s track record of developing quarterbacks, Davis is a prime flip target. LSU would look to sell him on the idea of playing in the SEC West, competing at the highest level, and potentially following in the footsteps of previous Tigers quarterbacks who went on to NFL success.
- Aidan Harris (Ohio State) Aidan Harris is another top quarterback in the 2026 class who is currently committed to a powerhouse program—Ohio State. Harris is known for his precision passing and ability to read defenses, and he has the size and stature that LSU covets in a quarterback. Although Ohio State is a national contender, LSU has the recruiting pedigree and facilities to attract quarterbacks of Harris’ caliber. The Tigers would likely highlight their ability to develop NFL-level talent, as well as their competitive program in the SEC, which might appeal to Harris’ ambitions of playing at the highest level.
- Devin Wright (Georgia) Devin Wright, a 2026 quarterback committed to Georgia, is another name on LSU’s radar. Wright has drawn comparisons to some of Georgia’s great quarterbacks, with excellent athleticism and arm strength. However, LSU has had success in the state of Georgia, and the Tigers are always looking to steal talent away from their rivals in the SEC East. A potential flip of Wright could be especially impactful, considering Georgia’s success in recent years, and it would be a huge statement for LSU to land such a high-profile player away from one of their conference rivals.
- Jaden Miller (Alabama) Committed to Alabama, Jaden Miller is another highly rated quarterback in the 2026 class who has received interest from LSU. Alabama has long been a force in the SEC under Nick Saban, and their ability to recruit top quarterbacks is no secret. However, LSU has the appeal of competing in the same conference, with an established track record of developing quarterbacks who can succeed at the highest level. LSU could make a compelling pitch to Miller by emphasizing the opportunity to contribute to an offense that is poised for sustained success under Brian Kelly.
The LSU Pitch: Why These Quarterbacks Should Flip
LSU’s recruiting strategy when pursuing committed quarterbacks is multifaceted. First and foremost, the Tigers’ pitch revolves around the program’s rich history of quarterback success. LSU has produced NFL talent at every position, and the quarterback position is no exception. The opportunity to follow in the footsteps of Joe Burrow, who went from a transfer to a Heisman Trophy winner and national champion, is a major selling point.
Another key aspect of LSU’s pitch is its offensive philosophy under Brian Kelly and offensive coordinator Mike Denbrock. Kelly has made it clear that he aims to build a balanced, dynamic offense that can excel both in the air and on the ground. For quarterbacks, this means the chance to operate within a high-powered system that will maximize their skills while preparing them for the NFL. LSU has proven its ability to develop quarterbacks, and that is an essential part of its recruitment pitch.
Additionally, LSU can offer quarterbacks the chance to play in one of the most competitive conferences in the country—the SEC. Competing against the best defenses in the country every week is an enticing proposition for quarterbacks who want to prove themselves on the national stage. Playing in the SEC West, which consistently produces national title contenders, also means national exposure and the chance to play in some of the most high-profile games in college football.
Finally, LSU’s world-class facilities, passionate fanbase, and rich football tradition are significant factors in attracting top talent. For quarterbacks who are looking for the best environment to develop their skills and chase their dreams of playing in the NFL, LSU presents an ideal destination.
