LSU Lands Impressive Recruiting Class Under New Coach

Despite a controversial coaching change, the Tigers have secured a top-ranked recruiting haul.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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LSU's new head coach has quickly assembled an elite recruiting class, landing a wave of high-caliber prospects and top transfers despite taking over the program just days before the early signing period. The Tigers' class currently ranks 11th nationally and features several 5-star recruits, as well as the top-rated player in the transfer portal.

Why it matters

LSU is considered one of the premier jobs in college football, and the new coaching staff's ability to secure such an impressive recruiting haul in a short time frame suggests they have quickly established momentum and a compelling vision for the program's future. This influx of talent could help the Tigers return to national championship contention in the near future.

The details

The Tigers' 2023 recruiting class includes 14 high school signees with an average player rating of 93.81, the highest in the nation. The class features four players ranked within the top 60 nationally. Additionally, LSU has landed 34 total commitments, including the top-rated player in the transfer portal, former Arizona State quarterback Sam Leavitt. The staff was able to flip several elite prospects from rival schools and retain existing commitments despite the mid-season coaching change.

  • The new head coach was hired just days before the early signing period.
  • In a 72-hour window, LSU signed three 5-star prospects: DL Lamar Brown, DL Richard Anderson, and WR Corey Barber (a flip from Ole Miss).

The players

Lane Kiffin

The new head coach of the LSU Tigers, known for his impressive recruiting abilities.

Sam Leavitt

The top-rated player in the transfer portal, who has committed to play quarterback for LSU.

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What they’re saying

“This initial success has laid a foundation that many believe will return the program to its status as a perennial national championship contender in the near future.”

— Michael Cohen, Fox Sports analyst (si.com)

“Kiffin leveraged those resources to secure a class that currently ranks 11th nationally.”

— Michael Cohen, Fox Sports analyst (si.com)

What’s next

The new coaching staff will continue to build on this impressive recruiting haul as they prepare for the upcoming season and work to return LSU to national prominence.

The takeaway

Despite a controversial mid-season coaching change, LSU's new head coach has quickly assembled an elite recruiting class, showcasing his ability to attract top talent and establish a compelling vision for the program's future. This influx of talent could help the Tigers re-emerge as a national championship contender in the near future.