Update on LSU football recruiting: What is the 2026 class ranking?
As we enter the 2025 college football offseason, LSU’s recruiting efforts for the 2026 class are already taking shape, with the Tigers looking to build upon a strong foundation set by head coach Brian Kelly and his staff. In a recruiting landscape that is increasingly competitive, LSU has quickly become a program that recruits from all over the country and is consistently ranked among the top programs in the nation. With the 2026 recruiting class, LSU is looking to maintain its elite status in college football, and the early signs suggest that the Tigers will once again be a major player on the national stage.
The 2026 Recruiting Landscape
The 2026 recruiting cycle is an exciting one for LSU fans, as it marks the first full recruiting class under head coach Brian Kelly, who took over the program in 2022. Kelly has brought stability and direction to a program that has seen ups and downs in recent years. His proven track record of success at Notre Dame and his ability to recruit high-level talent has helped LSU establish itself as a perennial contender in the SEC and national championship races.
As of early 2025, the 2026 recruiting class is still in its infancy, but it is clear that LSU is already making significant headway. The Tigers’ recruiting board is full of highly sought-after prospects, including a number of in-state and out-of-state players who could make an immediate impact at LSU. In terms of overall rankings, LSU is consistently ranked among the top 10 programs in the nation, with many analysts projecting the Tigers to finish with another top-tier class.
Early Momentum for LSU
One of the key factors in LSU’s early success with the 2026 class has been its ability to recruit in-state players. Louisiana is a talent-rich state, and LSU has long been the dominant force when it comes to keeping top-tier prospects within state lines. The importance of in-state recruiting cannot be overstated, as Louisiana has produced some of the best football talent in the country, and LSU’s ability to secure these players is crucial to the program’s continued success.
Already, LSU has secured a few key commitments from in-state recruits in the 2026 class, and these commitments have been instrumental in building early momentum for the program. These players have shown that LSU remains the school of choice for many of the state’s top high school football players. In particular, LSU has made strong inroads with elite Louisiana prospects such as top-rated offensive and defensive linemen, as well as skill position players who have the potential to be stars at the college level.
In addition to Louisiana prospects, LSU has also expanded its recruiting reach beyond state borders, targeting top talent across the country. Under Kelly’s leadership, the Tigers have been able to tap into new recruiting territories and have developed relationships with top high school programs in states like Texas, Georgia, Florida, and California. LSU’s national brand, combined with the appeal of playing in the SEC and at a program with a history of success, has allowed the Tigers to position themselves as a top choice for high-level prospects from all over the United States.
Top Recruiting Needs for LSU in 2026
As with any recruiting class, LSU’s needs for the 2026 cycle are shaped by the current roster and the anticipated departures of key players due to graduation or the NFL Draft. For LSU, some of the top positions that will require attention in the 2026 class include:
1. Quarterback: While LSU has talented quarterbacks in the current class and will likely have a strong group of signal-callers on the roster for the 2025 season, recruiting a top-tier quarterback for the 2026 class is a major priority. LSU has historically been a program that has had success at the quarterback position, with players like Joe Burrow leading the Tigers to a national championship in 2019. As the Tigers look to maintain their offensive success, adding a highly rated quarterback to the 2026 class will be critical.
Already, LSU has targeted some of the top quarterbacks in the nation for the 2026 cycle. Quarterback recruiting is a priority for every program, and LSU is no different. The Tigers have positioned themselves as a top contender for several 2026 quarterbacks who could be the next star under center for the program.
2. Offensive Line: Offensive line play is always a key factor in any successful football program, and LSU has made it a priority to continue to build its offensive line depth in the 2026 class. In the SEC, where teams like Alabama, Georgia, and Auburn are known for their physicality up front, LSU needs to be able to match that level of talent and depth. The Tigers have already shown interest in several highly rated offensive linemen in the 2026 cycle, including players from Louisiana and other football hotbeds across the country.
3. Defensive Line: Defensive line play has always been a hallmark of LSU football, and the Tigers have been known for producing elite pass rushers and run stoppers. The 2026 class will be no different, with LSU targeting top-tier defensive linemen who can make an immediate impact. Whether it’s edge rushers or interior linemen, LSU has prioritized recruiting the best defensive line talent available. This will remain a key position for LSU to continue its dominance in the SEC.
4. Wide Receiver: With a high-octane offense that often relies on explosive passing plays, LSU has made wide receiver recruiting a major focus for the 2026 class. The Tigers have produced some of the best wide receivers in the NFL, and with a dynamic passing game in place, LSU will continue to recruit top-tier wide receivers who can make an immediate impact. Players who can stretch the field and make plays after the catch are key to LSU’s offensive success, and the 2026 class is expected to provide a deep pool of talent at the position.
5. Defensive Back: LSU has built a reputation for producing elite defensive backs, and with the increasing importance of the passing game in college football, the Tigers will continue to prioritize defensive back recruiting. LSU has been linked to several highly rated cornerbacks and safeties in the 2026 class, and these recruits will play a critical role in maintaining LSU’s dominance on the defensive side of the ball.
National Ranking and Competition
As of January 2025, LSU has already begun to emerge as one of the top recruiting programs for the 2026 class. According to several recruiting services, the Tigers are consistently ranked in the top 10 nationally, with some analysts projecting LSU to finish within the top five by the time National Signing Day rolls around. The program has made early commitments from several high-profile players, and with Brian Kelly’s established recruiting prowess, LSU is positioned to continue to attract top talent.
That said, LSU will face stiff competition from other national powers like Alabama, Georgia, Ohio State, and Clemson, all of which are heavily involved in recruiting the 2026 class. The Tigers will need to continue to develop relationships with recruits, sell the advantages of playing in Baton Rouge, and demonstrate their commitment to building a national championship-caliber team.
The Influence of Brian Kelly
At the heart of LSU’s recruiting success is head coach Brian Kelly. Kelly, who has a well-established reputation as one of the top recruiters in college football, has brought a level of professionalism and consistency to LSU that has resonated with recruits and their families. Since his arrival in Baton Rouge, Kelly has instilled a culture of winning, discipline, and player development, which has attracted some of the best young football players in the country.
Kelly’s background as a coach who has developed NFL talent is particularly appealing to recruits. He has a history of helping players improve their skills and make the transition to the professional ranks, and for top recruits who aspire to play at the next level, that is a major selling point. The coaching staff’s ability to develop players is one of the key factors that will help LSU maintain its status as a premier destination for top-tier recruits.
