LSU, Notre Dame Sign Record Number of 5-Star Recruits

Lane Kiffin and Marcus Freeman lead their programs to historic recruiting success.

Jan. 27, 2026 at 3:15pm

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LSU and Notre Dame have both signed a record number of five-star recruits in the 2026 recruiting cycle. LSU, led by new head coach Lane Kiffin, has signed the top transfer portal class in the country and added three five-star prospects to their 2026 recruiting haul. Meanwhile, Marcus Freeman's Notre Dame program has also signed five five-star recruits. This marks a rare milestone for both programs as they continue to recruit at an elite level.

Why it matters

Signing elite talent is crucial for programs looking to compete for national championships. LSU and Notre Dame's ability to land so many top-tier prospects shows the strength of their recruiting efforts and the appeal of their respective programs. This level of recruiting success could translate to on-field success in the coming years.

The details

LSU has signed the No. 1 transfer portal class in the country, including the top-ranked quarterback, offensive lineman and edge rusher available. They have also added three five-star prospects to their 2026 recruiting class: defensive linemen Lamar Brown and Richard Anderson, as well as wide receiver Corey Barber. Notre Dame, led by head coach Marcus Freeman, has also signed five five-star recruits in the 2026 class. This is a rare accomplishment, as most top programs typically sign 2-3 five-star players per cycle.

  • LSU hired Lane Kiffin as their new head coach in December 2025.
  • The 2026 recruiting cycle is currently underway, with National Signing Day set for February 2026.

The players

Lane Kiffin

The new head football coach at LSU, known for his innovative offensive mind and strong recruiting abilities.

Marcus Freeman

The head football coach at Notre Dame, who has continued the program's tradition of recruiting elite talent.

Lamar Brown

A five-star defensive lineman and the No. 1 player at his position in the 2026 recruiting class, who signed with LSU.

Richard Anderson

A five-star defensive lineman and the No. 3 player at his position in the 2026 recruiting class, who signed with LSU.

Corey Barber

A five-star wide receiver and the No. 3 player at his position in the 2026 recruiting class, who signed with LSU.

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What they’re saying

“Then go to the portal, which I have zero concern about the interest of players with that, because I know what the interest was of players nationally to come play for us where we were just at, and now when you put that with this stadium and with that logo, I mean, makes me want to get on the phone right now, but the portal is not open.”

— Lane Kiffin, Head Coach, LSU

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, Grocery Employee

What’s next

LSU and Notre Dame will look to continue their recruiting momentum as they prepare for the 2026 season. Both programs will aim to develop their talented incoming classes and compete for conference and national championships.

The takeaway

LSU and Notre Dame's ability to sign so many elite prospects in the 2026 recruiting cycle showcases the strength of their respective programs and the appeal they hold for top high school talent. This level of recruiting success could translate to on-field dominance in the years to come as these blue-chip recruits look to make an immediate impact.